Chris Rock claims he turned down an opportunity to host the 2023 Academy Awards after being slapped by Will Smith during this year's event in March.
Rock stated that Smith's slap stung, referring to the actor's performance as Muhammed Ali in the 2001 film Ali and emphasizing that he's bigger than him. The state of Nevada would not allow him to fight Will Smith.
Following the slapping incident, the actor, who previously hosted the Oscars in 2005 and 2016, declined an offer to participate in a Super Bowl commercial.
Chris expressed excitement over seeing Pinkett Smith, who has alopecia areata, star in 'G.I. Jane 2,' prompting Smith to run up on stage and smack Chris.
Smith returned to his seat and yelled at Chris to keep his wife's name out of his lips. Smith was named Best Actor at the 94th Academy Awards just minutes after the event.
Smith apologized to the Academy and fellow candidates when winning his first Oscar for best actor (main role) in 'King Richard,' but did not mention Chris.
Smith apologized to Chris Rock and Academy on his social media profile after getting condemnation for his disruptive actions. Because of the slap, Smith has been barred from membership in the Academy for ten years.