The 94th Academy Awards will forever be remembered for an unprecedented incident that has since dominated both headlines and social media. During the live broadcast, a shocking moment unfolded when actor Will Smith walked onto the stage and slapped comedian Chris Rock across the face. This altercation occurred right after Rock made a joke about the appearance of Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. The joke, which referenced Pinkett Smith’s shaved head, was perceived as insensitive by Smith, particularly because Pinkett Smith has alopecia.

The incident quickly spiraled into a viral sensation, with photojournalist Brian Snyder capturing the moment in a photograph that spread across the internet, becoming the subject of countless memes and discussions. It was so impactful that the photo was even integrated into a mural on a remaining section of the Berlin Wall in Mauerpark.

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The live broadcast in the United States censored the expletives used by both Rock and Smith due to federal censorship laws. However, international broadcasts did not, and uncensored recordings of the event went viral on social media platforms, including YouTube, where the clip garnered over 50 million views within 24 hours.

The aftermath of the incident saw the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, the group that awards the Oscars, banning Smith from attending the Oscars for 10 years. Smith also issued a statement of apology to Rock and the Academy. On the other hand, Jada Pinkett Smith, reflecting on the event in light of her memoir ‘Worthy’, revealed that she initially thought the confrontation was staged. She expressed her surprise and disbelief at the turn of events and mentioned that Chris Rock tried to apologize to her during a pause in the live broadcast, but she was unable to address the issue at that moment.

Chris Rock, in a later comedy special, addressed the incident, humorously remarking on the situation and indicating that he chose not to retaliate physically, citing the values instilled in him by his parents. The special, which was streamed live on Netflix, was part of a significant deal that Rock had with the streaming service.

This incident, while certainly controversial, has opened up conversations around decorum at public events, the boundaries of humor, and the implications of public reactions to personal grievances. The ripple effects of this moment continue to be felt in various spheres, including entertainment, media, and popular culture.

This unique event in the history of the Academy Awards not only underscores the unpredictability of live television but also highlights the complex interplay of personal, professional, and public personas in the world of celebrities.