Wanda Sykes Reveals Update on Will Smith’s Apology After Oscars Slap

The 2022 Oscars are widely remembered for an unexpected incident involving a slap that reverberated around the world. During the ceremony on March 27, 2022, actor Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock after Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. The incident overshadowed the event, affecting not only Smith but also the ceremony’s hosts, including Wanda Sykes, who recently provided an update on whether Smith had reached out to apologize.

In an interview with *Variety*, Sykes discussed the impact of the slap on her experience hosting the Oscars alongside Regina Hall and Amy Schumer. When reminded that hosting the prestigious event is a significant achievement for comedians, she candidly remarked, “I forgot about that.” Sykes expressed her feelings about how the incident overshadowed what should have been a celebratory night.

Reflecting on the event, Sykes indicated that while she enjoyed working with Hall and Schumer, the slap became the focal point of discussions about the evening. “People talk to me about that night without even mentioning that I hosted,” she noted, emphasizing her role as an active participant rather than a mere observer.

When the conversation turned to Smith’s apology, Sykes confirmed that he did reach out after the incident. During the interview, she recalled how she had been unwell at the time, stating, “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.’ But he did call.” This clarification adds a layer of understanding to the aftermath of the slap and Smith’s efforts to address the fallout.

On the night of the Oscars, Smith won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams in *King Richard*. Following the incident, he publicly apologized to Rock and subsequently resigned from the Academy. As a consequence of his actions, Smith has been banned from attending the Oscars and all other Academy events for a period of ten years.

The slap and its ensuing repercussions have sparked widespread conversations about the boundaries of comedy and the responsibilities of public figures. As Sykes continues to navigate the legacy of that night, her insights shed light on the broader implications of the incident within the entertainment industry.