Comedian Wanda Sykes, a co-host of the 2022 Academy Awards, recently revealed that Will Smith called her to apologize for his infamous slap of Chris Rock, shedding new light on the incident that overshadowed her career highlight. Sykes, who was ill at the time, was unable to speak to Smith directly but acknowledged his gesture, marking a significant update to one of Hollywood’s most talked-about controversies.
More than three years after the stunning incident at the 2022 Academy Awards, comedian Wanda Sykes has shared a new detail about the fallout: a direct apology from Will Smith himself. Sykes, who co-hosted that year’s ceremony alongside Amy Schumer and Regina Hall, had previously stated that none of the hosts had received an apology from Smith.
In a recent interview with Variety, Sykes confirmed that Smith did indeed reach out. “He called,” Sykes told the publication. “I had COVID or a bad cold. I just texted to say, ‘Hey, I got your message. Thank you. I can’t talk.’ But he did call.” This revelation provides a clearer picture of the private interactions following the highly public event, confirming Smith’s attempt to make amends directly to the hosts affected by his actions.
The Infamous Incident and Its Immediate Impact
The 2022 Oscars were irrevocably altered when Will Smith walked onto the stage and slapped presenter Chris Rock. The altercation occurred after Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, and her shaved head, which was a reference to her alopecia, a medical condition causing hair loss. Smith then returned to his seat and yelled, “Keep my wife’s name out of your f—ing mouth.” Less than an hour later, Smith won the award for Best Actor for his role in King Richard.
For the hosts, Sykes, Schumer, and Hall, the moment was particularly jarring. They had worked diligently to put the show together, only to see their efforts overshadowed. Sykes reflected on this impact, stating, “I mean, I loved working with Regina [Hall] and Amy [Schumer]. But like you said, it got overshadowed. People talk to me about that night without even mentioning, ‘Oh yeah, you hosted, right?’ Like I was in the audience or at home, watching TV. But I was there.” This sentiment highlights the significant emotional and professional toll the incident took on those directly involved in the ceremony.
Smith’s Public Apologies and Academy’s Response
Following the incident, Will Smith issued multiple public apologies, including a direct statement to Chris Rock and the Academy. On Instagram, he wrote, “Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at [the] Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally.” This apology, shared on his Instagram account, underscored his remorse and his commitment to personal growth.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences took swift action, banning Smith for 10 years from all Academy events, including the Oscars ceremony itself. Smith also voluntarily resigned from the Academy in the aftermath. This decision was outlined in a letter released in April 2022, emphasizing that the Bad Boys actor would “not be permitted to attend any Academy events or programs, in person or virtually.”
Chris Rock’s Perspective and Sykes’s Unexpected Apology
While Smith faced severe consequences, Chris Rock handled the situation with remarkable composure. He declined to press charges and, months later in July 2022, confirmed that although the slap “hurt,” he was “not a victim.” Rock’s focus remained on moving forward rather than dwelling on the incident.
Interestingly, Wanda Sykes revealed that Rock also apologized to her at the Oscars after-party. “I was like, ‘Why are you apologizing?'” Sykes recounted. Rock explained his regret, telling her, “It was supposed to be your night. You and Amy and Regina were doing such a great job. I’m so sorry this is now gonna be about this.” Sykes viewed Rock’s apology as unnecessary, recognizing his inherent character. Her prior statement on The Ellen Show in March 2022, where she initially claimed no apology, highlights how this new detail from Smith offers a complete picture of the post-slap communication.
The Enduring Legacy of the 2022 Oscars
The 2022 Academy Awards will forever be etched in history, not just for the cinematic achievements celebrated, but for the shocking moment that captured global attention. Wanda Sykes’s recent revelation about Will Smith’s apology call, even if indirect, adds another layer to this complex narrative. It underscores Smith’s attempts at reconciliation and provides closure to one aspect of the highly scrutinized event. While the slap overshadowed a significant career highlight for Sykes and her co-hosts, their resilience and continued contributions to entertainment remain undisputed, ensuring their legacy extends far beyond a single controversial night.
