March 06, (THEWILL) – Serena Williams’ father, Richard Williams, has defended Hollywood actor, Will Smith, for slapping Chris Rock during the 2022 Oscar awards.
Smith won the best actor at the 94th edition of the Academy Awards for playing Richard Williams in a 2021 biographical film titled ‘King Richard’.
The movie detailed how he trained and positioned Venus and Serena to become world-beaters in tennis.
At the same ceremony, the actor slapped Rock, who joked about Jada Pinkett’s shaved head.
Pinkett had shaved her hair as a result of a hair loss condition called alopecia.
The actor’s action attracted huge criticism on social media and sanction from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
Speaking on the UK TV show, Good Morning Britain, Williams defended Smith, saying he didn’t see anything wrong with what the actor did to Rock.
The 81-year-old added that he does not feel sorry for the comedian. He also pleaded with the public to forgive Smith.
“I’ll always stand by him,” Richard said.
“I think he has done the best thing he needed to do, but I would never be disgusted with Smith. Matter of fact, I appreciate Smith.
“I’m 81 years old but when I was about 51 years or younger, I almost killed any damn one, so I think Smith has done a great deal now.
“It’s time for everyone to forgive Will Smith.”
The retired tennis coach also urged the AMPAS to lift its 10-year ban on Smith.
“It should be just one day or no more than a week at the most,” he added.
Smith earlier apologised for his actions, which he described as unacceptable.
“There is no part of me that thinks that was the right way to behave at that moment. I am deeply remorseful and I’m trying to be remorseful without being ashamed of myself,” he had stated.
About the Author
