Wanda Sykes Reveals Details of Will Smith’s Apology After Oscars Incident

The fallout from the 2022 Oscars continues as host Wanda Sykes recently provided insights into her experience during the event, particularly regarding Will Smith’s infamous slap of Chris Rock. In a candid interview with Variety, Sykes discussed the impact of the incident on her role as a host and revealed that Smith did reach out to apologize.

Sykes Reflects on the Oscars Experience

During the Oscar ceremony on March 27, 2022, Sykes, alongside Regina Hall and Amy Schumer, hosted an event that was meant to celebrate cinematic achievements. Instead, it became overshadowed by an unexpected moment when Will Smith slapped Chris Rock in response to a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Sykes remarked on how the incident diverted attention from what should have been a highlight of her career.

When asked about the achievement of hosting the Oscars, Sykes said, “I mean, I loved working with Regina and Amy. But like you said, it got overshadowed.” She noted that many people approach her about that night without acknowledging her role as a host, as if she were merely an audience member. “But I was there,” she emphasized, signaling her frustration with how the narrative has unfolded.

Will Smith’s Apology

In the interview, Sykes shared an update on whether Will Smith had apologized to her following the slap incident. Initially, she had mentioned that he had not reached out, but she clarified that he did eventually call her. “He did. He called. I had COVID or a bad cold. I just texted to say, ‘Hey, I got your message. Thank you. I can’t talk,’” Sykes explained. This acknowledgment marks a shift in their interaction after the highly publicized event.

On that night, Smith’s reaction to Rock’s joke led to significant consequences. After winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams in the film “King Richard,” Smith publicly apologized to Rock and the Academy. In light of the incident, he resigned from the Academy and was subsequently banned from attending the Oscars and other Academy events for a duration of ten years, highlighting the serious repercussions of his actions.

As the industry reflects on the events of the night, Sykes’ comments provide a glimpse into the broader impact of the incident, not just on the individuals involved but on the ceremony itself. The Oscars, once a night of celebration, has become a point of discussion regarding decorum and accountability within the entertainment industry.