Will Smith apologizes for hitting Oscar host: I'm deeply ashamed

Today (March 29), Will Smith posted on Weibo, publicly apologizing to Chris Rock, the show producers and the audience for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars ceremony.

Original Weibo:

Violence, in any form, has extremely detrimental effects. My behavior at the Oscars last night was unacceptable and inexcusable. Being joked about is a normal part of my job, but the joke about Jada's health was so overwhelming that I lost control and overreacted.

Chris, I want to publicly apologize to you. My behavior crossed a line and was wrong. I am deeply ashamed of this and this is not how I behave in my daily life. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.

I also want to apologize to the Academy, the show's producers, all of the guests, and all of the viewers around the world. I also want to apologize to the Williams family and the King Richard family. I deeply regret that my actions tainted what should have been a wonderful experience for everyone.

I am still in the process of self-cultivation.

There was a shocking scene at the Oscars ceremony. The host Chris Rock teased Will Smith's wife Jada Pinkett Smith for her bald head caused by alopecia, saying that she could star in "G.I.G. 2". Will walked onto the stage and slapped Rock in the face, and yelled at Rock from the audience: "Don't let my wife's name come out of your stinky mouth!"

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organizer of the Oscars, has issued a statement saying that it does not tolerate any form of violence, condemned Smith's behavior at the ceremony last night, and began an investigation into the incident. The investigation may lead to Will Smith being suspended or expelled from the membership, including being unable to participate in next year's Oscars. But Smith's golden statue will not be cancelled.

Los Angeles police said Chris Rock refused to report the incident, but Rock can change his mind within six months. Under California law, Smith's attack could result in up to six months in jail and a $100,000 fine. P. Diddy said Will Smith and Chris Rock have reconciled, "No problem, it's all settled, I can prove it. We're still good friends." However, the incident has become a big deal, and many netizens have expressed dissatisfaction with Will Smith's assault and hope for severe punishment.