It’s the moment that has dominated the conversation surrounding the 94th annual Academy Awards – the moment Will Smith took to the stage, slapping comedian Chris Rock.

Now, following the incident the day after the awards ceremony, the actor has issued a public apology branding his actions as “unacceptable”.

“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive,” he said in the statement posted on his Instagram profile. “My behaviour at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable.

 

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“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.”

Smith went on to acknowledge Rock directly – something which he had not done in his Oscars acceptance speech the day prior – apologising for his “out of line” behaviour, sharing his regret at the incident.

“I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris,” he said. “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.”

As part of his statement, Smith went on to apologise to the Academy, all attendees, those watching at home and the producers of the show, as well as the Williams Family and those who were part of his Oscar-winning film King Richard.

“I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us,” he said signing off the statement. “I am a work in progress.”

During yesterday’s awards ceremony, Rock took to the stage to present the award for Best Documentary, who delivered a short monologue before the scheduled announcement of the winner, however, it was during his quick skit that some of his jokes didn’t go down too well.

In the monologue, the presenter went on to make a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Commenting on Pinkett Smith’s current bald hairstyle, Rock said, “Looking forward to seeing you in GI Jane.” This quip refers to how in said movie, the character, played by actress Demi Moore, shaves her head.

However, the jibe did not sit well with Smith, as he took to the stage, slapping the comedian in front of the entire audience and on camera.

“Keep my wife’s name out of your f—ing mouth,” he added when returning to his seat.

Smith’s public apology comes after the Academy condemned the actions of the actor.

“The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show,” the organization said in a statement. “We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our bylaws, standards of conduct and California law.”

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Images: Getty, Media: Instagram