I just finished watching a show where, in real time, Will Smith smacked the crap out of Chris Rock for making a joke about his wife and then within the same show collected his first Oscar and was, apparently, instantly redeemed by the community. Let’s skip the debate over whether it was a punch or slap. Such conversations fail to put the spotlight on what an absolutely ridiculous and sad moment it was. Smith appeared to laugh at the joke before realizing his wife was upset by the comment. He then went up to Chris Rock and assaulted him. What changed? This has led to immediate thoughts that it was staged. I however think it was a genuine moment. I feel like Smith recognized the hurt in his wife’s eyes and knew that by at first laughing and then not doing anything he’d be in a serious situation in his own life He didn’t protect her. Later in his speech he harped on the idea of protection.
Here’s the thing: Jada Smith is going bald. She’s discussed it publicly. Does that make her off limits for comedy? I am not blaming her for the moment. I believe she played a part. I believe the relationship played a part. With that being said, Will committed the offense. On live TV. Then walked away with an Oscar. He’s gonna be alright. Somehow I think Rock loses in all of this. I don’t think that is right.