American actor, Will Smith has publicly apologized to comedian, Chris Rock for striking him on the face at the Academy Awards on Sunday night.
On Monday, the 53 year old actor, wrote a lengthy statement on Instagram, admitting he was wrong for striking Rock. He wrote,
“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at last night’s 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.”
He continued,
“I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris, I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
The Oscar award winner concluded,
“I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world. And I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family,” the actor continued.
“I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us, I am a work in progress.”
The incident occurred Sunday night after the comedian made a joke in reference to Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair. He said, “Jada, I love ya. G.I. Jane 2, can’t wait to see ya.”
