Will Smith, 53, sparked controversy after slapping Chris Rock, 57, live on stage at the Oscars on Sunday night. Richard Williams, 80, who Will portrays in the Oscar-nominated biopic King Richard, has since spoken out against the incident.
Richard, who is the father of tennis champions Venus and Serena Williams, has confirmed he “doesn’t condone” Will’s actions on Sunday.The actor slapped comedian Chris across the face after he cracked a bald joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith, who has alopecia.
Many people have spoken out against the incident, including Richard’s estranged daughter Sabrina, who argued that Will should have his award revoked.
Richard’s son and spokesperson Chavoita LeSane said on Richard’s behalf: “We don't know all the details of what happened, but we don't condone anyone hitting anyone else unless it's in self-defence.”Chavoita, who has been acting as his father's spokesman since the 80-year-old had a stroke, declined to say anything further on the matter when asked to comment on Will’s acceptance speech.
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