Will Smith has issued an official response following his altercation with Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards on Sunday (March 27).

In a statement shared on his social media, Smith called his actions “unacceptable” and apologized to the legendary comedian.

“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive,” Smith wrote. “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.”

He closed out his statement by apologizing to the Academy, which announced on Monday that they’d be opening an “inquiry” into Smith as a result of his actions on the Oscar stage. 

“I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees, and everyone watching around the world. I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us. I am a work in progress.”

What do you think about Will Smith’s apology? Do you think his Oscar will be confiscated due to the infamous slap? Stay tuned for more on this and other classic hip-hop news.