Will Smith Seemingly References Viral Chris Rock Oscars Slap on Freestyle: ‘Wasn’t Raised to Fake It’

Will Smith seems to be reflecting on the infamous moment when he slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars in his latest freestyle release. The Academy Award-winning actor, 56, appeared on Fire in the Booth with British DJ Charlie Sloth, where he referenced the viral incident from 2022 with the comedian, 60. While not mentioning Rock by name, Smith’s words seemed to allude to the 2022 Academy Awards where he physically struck Rock on live TV, following a joke Rock made about Smith’s wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair.

During his freestyle, Smith raps, “If you talking crazy out your face up on the stage and disrespect me on the stage, expect me on the stage.” He continued, “Jokers dish it out, cry foul when it’s time to take it. City full of real ones, wasn’t raised to fake it.” The verse alludes to the high-tension moment at the Oscars where Smith reacted to Rock’s joke about his wife, showing a glimpse into the emotions that led to the controversial slap.

The incident at the 2022 Oscars sparked a whirlwind of reactions and discussions in the entertainment industry. Rock incorporated Pinkett Smith into his jokes during the ceremony, referencing her bald head due to alopecia. This comment led to Smith’s abrupt physical reaction towards Rock, followed by a public apology on Instagram where he expressed regret and acknowledged the inexcusable nature of his behavior.

Smith’s latest release, “Based on a True Story,” marks his return to the music scene after two decades. The album seems to touch upon the turbulent events at the Oscars, with lyrics alluding to being “canceled” and a strong message about not shying away from standing up for oneself. The tracks on the album serve as a platform for Smith to share his perspective and address the challenges he faced following the Oscars incident.

The aftermath of the Oscars slap saw Smith resign from the Academy and receive a 10-year ban from attending their ceremonies. The incident also affected his relationship with Rock, who, despite admitting the hurt caused by the slap, emphasized that he was not a victim. The complex dynamics between the two prominent figures in the entertainment industry have continued to intrigue fans and industry insiders alike.

As the freestyle snippet circulates, fans and critics are left to interpret Smith’s words and their significance in the context of his past actions. The nuanced exploration of personal boundaries, respect, and authenticity in the freestyle highlights the complexities of celebrity interactions and the public scrutiny that follows such incidents. Smith’s artistic expression through music serves as a platform for introspection and self-examination following a highly publicized moment of conflict.

The impact of Smith’s freestyle extends beyond the realm of music, delving into broader conversations about accountability, forgiveness, and growth in the face of adversity. As the public absorbs and dissects the lyrics, the ongoing dialogue surrounding the Oscars incident and its repercussions demonstrates the lasting effects of high-profile conflicts within the entertainment industry. Smith’s artistic response adds another layer to the narrative, inviting audiences to reflect on themes of redemption and personal evolution in the public eye.