HOLLYWOOD star Will Smith has taken to social media to apologise to Chris Rock after his bizarre outburst at the Oscars.
Smith caused absolute chaos on Monday after he stormed the stage during the live telecast and struck Rock across the face after the comedian made a joke about the appearance of Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
Less than an hour later, Smith won the best actor Oscar for his role in King Richard and while he apologised to The Academy and other for his behaviour, he didn’t apologise to Rock.
On Tuesday morning, Smith took to Instagram to issue a public apology.
“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive,” he said.
“My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable.
“Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally.
“I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.
“I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us.”
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It comes after The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences condemned Smith’s behaviour and confirmed it was launching a formal review.
“We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law,” the statement said.
There has been speculation the Academy will discuss the possibility of stripping Smith of his Oscar.
