LOS ANGELES (AP) — Will Smith has apologized to Chris Rock for slapping the comedian onstage at Sunday’s Oscars, writing in a statement that he was “out of line” and “wrong.”
Smith sent the statement Monday on his Instagram page, saying he is embarrassed by his actions.
Smith’s assault on Rock stunned audiences inside the ceremony and at home.
The film academy condemned Smith’s behavior earlier Monday.
Smith slapped Rock after the comedian made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Smith won the best actor award later in the ceremony, and on Monday he also apologized to the film academy, Oscar producers and viewers.
Chris Rock has so far declined to file a police report against actor Will Smith, but there could still be lights camera, and legal action.
In the video below, ABC 10News Kimberly Hunt has an In-Depth discussion with Criminal Defense Attorney David Shapiro following Sunday night's incident.
