Will Smith slapped Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars because Chris Rock made a joke about Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head, comparing her to the character in the film G.I. Jane, which was sensitive due to Jada's alopecia condition. Initially, Will Smith appeared to laugh, but after seeing his wife's reaction, he walked onto the stage and slapped Chris Rock in the face. Smith then returned to his seat and shouted at Rock to "keep my wife's name out your f***ing mouth".
Will Smith later explained that he lost control that night and was going through personal struggles, but he did not justify his behavior. He apologized to Chris Rock and the Academy after the event. The incident led to Smith being banned from Academy events for 10 years.
