It’s unfortunate that, the day after Hollywood’s biggest night — and for much of the night itself, too — all anybody can talk about is Men in Black star Will Smith’s on-camera assault on comedian Chris Rock over a “joke” at the expense of Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. So many honorees earned so much good will and attention for their achievements, but Smith’s slap on Rock has dominated the conversation.
Now, many fans have suggested that Smith ought to face some consequences for his actions, including possibly losing the Oscar he was awarded for his role in King Richard .
So far, Smith hasn’t faced much in the way of repercussions.
Indeed, he remained in his seat after the incident, without any interference from the Academy or security. Law enforcement hasn’t gotten involved, either, with the LAPD stating that because Rock has declined to press charges, Smith won’t be arrested — at least for now.
Smith did indicate he might expect some sort of reprisal.
In his acceptance speech , a tearful Smith apologized to his fellow nominees and to the Academy — but not to Rock. “I’m hoping the Academy invites me back,” he slipped in at the end of his speech.
In a statement, the Academy said that it “does not condone violence,” without going into any sort of detail as to how it might punish transgressors.
Instead, the statement tried to bring the focus back onto the other award winners of the evening.
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However, behind the scenes, some have speculated that Smith might be forced to surrender his Oscar, citing the Academy’s “code of conduct,” the NY Post reported.
And that’s an idea many fans are on board with.
Twitter was awash with fans who think Smith’s slap should cost him his Oscar.
“Extremely disappointing and Will Smith should lose his Oscar for his reaction to a joke and be charged for his actions,” one person wrote . “Such a bad example for our future generation and if unpunished will teach our children that it is ok to smack someone if you don’t like what they say.”
“Imagine, if you will, if audience members can now assault stand-up comedians for doing jokes they don’t like,” wrote another. “Think about it. Think some more. Will Smith should lose his Oscar as quickly as he’s lost my respect.”
However, as many pointed out, the precedent for Smith losing his Oscar isn’t great.
After all, many Oscar recipients have been convicted of some awful crimes, including Harvey Weinstein, without having to return their statuettes.
So, what do you think? Should Will Smith lose his Oscar over his assault? Will he? Let us know in the comments!
