Did Chris Rock ever sue Will Smith?
Will Smith will perform a new song at the 2024 BET Awards. Apparently, his years-long ban from attending the Oscars didn’t extend to other events.
But more than two years after the infamous and polarizing “slap” incident… what’s the shutdown?
American society is notoriously litigious. Is Chris Rock finally taking Will Smith to court over the slap he’s heard around the world?
Will Smith and Chris Rock’s infamous Oscars slap revisited
In March 2022, Chris Rock stood on the stage of the Oscars.
Hosting the Oscars is not an enviable event. Some do it better than others, but it’s a thankless job that can ruffle (powerful) feathers and potentially damage a comedian’s brand with audiences.
Hosting the Oscars isn’t typically a contact sport. Chris Rock isn’t the first person to cross a line when making fun of famous guests, but no one has forgotten it.
As for what happened, Chris joked about Jada’s hair. She suffers from alopecia and he chose to joke about her bald head.
Many people on social media have since pointed out that Chris Rock’s apparent crush on Jada goes back decades. Let’s be honest – it’s weird.
But Will Smith’s response wasn’t a stern look or social media condemnation. He strode onto the stage and punched Chris Rock in the face. After returning to his seat, he advised the host not to mention Jada’s name.
How did Chris Rock respond?
The slap infamously polarized social media.
Some people are hysterical and acting as if Will Smith is a monster – some even comparing it to domestic violence. (Chris Rock is not Smith’s child, partner, or other family member…in case anyone was wondering)
Meanwhile, the other faction is acting like it’s no big deal. Apparently, this is not the case. Generally speaking, hitting someone in the face is considered aggression. Whatever provocation is possible, it will never be there is nothing.
On stage, Chris Rock himself remained mostly composed — mostly out of shock at first.
Will Smith issued an apology. First, to everyone (during his Oscar acceptance speech). Then, the next day, he took to social media to apologize directly to Chris.
He was also banned from the Academy Awards for ten years. Still, it comes with some benefits.
But is Chris Rock suing Will Smith?
But now let’s answer this: No, Chris Rock is not suing Will Smith after the 2022 Oscars.
It’s certainly a complicated decision.
This could damage his brand. Society in general, and fans in particular, may wonder about lawsuits – whether they are legitimate or completely illegitimate.
It can be said that Chris finally had the last laugh. Netflix is reportedly offering him $40 million for a stand-up special. (This is a credible report; Netflix’s financial options are charming) period selective angerIn a show that aired a year after the Oscars incident, he mentioned Will Smith multiple times.
“People ask, ‘Does it hurt?’ It still hurts. I have [Will’s song] ‘Summer’ is ringing in my ears,” Chris joked. But I’m not a victim, baby, you’ll never see me cry on Oprah or Gaelic. … I took the hit like Pacquiao did.
He further explained: “A lot of people say, Chris, why don’t you do anything? Why don’t you give anything back? Because I have parents, that’s why. Because I was raised. I have parents, you know I What did my parents teach me? Don’t fight in front of white people.
Will Smith to perform at BET Awards
As well as Will Smith debuting new songs on Sunday 30 June, a host of other talented acts will also take the stage on culture’s biggest night.
These include Ms. Lauryn Hill, YG Marley, Tyla and of course the beautiful Ice Spice performers.
GloRilla, Latto, Muni Long, Sexyy Red, Shaboozey, Victoria Monet and Tanner Adell will also perform. Taraji P. Henson will host the event for the third time. Good for her!