*The fallout from Will Smith’s 2022 Oscars slap reportedly remains a source of frustration for the actor, who is said to want another chance with the Academy.
According to a source cited by the National Enquirer, Smith has repeatedly attempted to put the confrontation with Chris Rock behind him, but has been frustrated by Rock’s unwillingness to accept his apologies.
“Will has repeatedly apologized to Chris and got absolutely nothing in return, which is very triggering for him,” the source says. “He can’t stand the fact that Chris is refusing to accept his apology and move on from this.”
Smith’s inability to influence how Rock feels about the incident is reportedly another source of irritation. “It’s incredibly hard for him to have zero control over a situation, that is something he absolutely hates,” the source says.
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The Academy banned Smith from attending its events for 10 years after he walked onstage and slapped Rock during the March 27, 2022, ceremony. The confrontation followed Rock’s joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head. Pinkett Smith has alopecia, while Rock has said he was unaware of her condition when he made the “G.I. Jane” reference.
The latest source claims Smith would like the Academy to reconsider the punishment. “Yes, he was wrong to hit Chris, but there was context to his actions,” the source says.
Rock’s feelings about the incident could make that difficult. A previous source described him as still upset and noted his standing within the Academy, saying, “Another obstacle is that Chris Rock is rightfully still very upset about the incident, and he’s a beloved Academy insider.”
That source also suggested reconciliation could change the situation: “The moment everybody is waiting for is for Chris and Will to publicly and genuinely bury the hatchet – that’s going to give the Academy the confidence to revisit their decision to ban Will from the Oscars for 10 years.”
The Academy announced Smith’s ban on April 8, 2022, saying its response was intended to protect performers and guests, restore trust and begin a period of healing. The latest source claims Smith does not publicly blame Rock, but believes the comedian is deliberately prolonging the conflict.
“And the longer this goes on, the more angry and bitter Will gets,” the source says.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Will Smith Appeals to Oscar Officials for Reinstatement After 10-Year Ban Following Chris Rock Slap
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