Wanda Sykes Faces Backlash for Calling Will Smith Slap ‘Physically Ill-Making’
Wanda Sykes has recently spoken out about the backlash she received following her comments on the infamous slap incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards. During her appearance on The Breakfast Club on March 30, Sykes addressed the criticism about her reaction to the event, which she described as “physically ill-making.”
Background of the Oscars Incident
At the 94th Academy Awards, Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s alopecia, comparing her look to that of G.I. Jane while presenting the Oscar for Best Documentary. In response, Will Smith walked onto the stage and slapped Chris Rock. After the incident, Smith returned to his seat and warned Rock to refrain from making jokes about his wife.
Later that evening, Smith went on to win the Oscar for Best Actor.
Sykes’ Reaction and Backlash
- Wanda Sykes, a co-host of the 94th Academy Awards alongside Regina King and Amy Schumer, expressed her horror at the incident.
- She revealed that she was working during the event and felt disturbed by the physical assault on her colleague.
- During the interview, Sykes stated, “That’s not supposed to happen,” emphasizing her disappointment and frustration.
- She lamented the lack of immediate reaction from attendees and was disturbed that Smith received an award later that night.
Sykes admitted, “I caught a lot of flack” for labeling the incident as making her “physically ill.”
Subsequent Apologies and Actions
After the incident, Will Smith reached out to apologize to Sykes. She had been dealing with a “nasty infection” at the time of his call and chose not to engage further.
Significantly, Smith resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences following the slap and received a 10-year ban from its events. During a post-awards party, Chris Rock reassured Sykes that he hoped her hosting duties would not be overshadowed by the incident.
Wanda Sykes continues to make headlines for her insights, as well as her unique comedic perspective on recent events in Hollywood.
