The incident at the 2022 Academy Awards, where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock, continues too spark discussion and reveal nuanced perspectives within the entertainment industry. actor Michael Epps recently shared his thoughts on the event, offering a candid look at his own experiences with Rock and his understanding of Smith’s reaction.
Epps recounted a previous encounter where Rock made a remark that seemingly triggered Smith. That na (Rock) went on one of their shows and said, ‘shuckey Duckey needs some jokey wokeys,’
Epps stated, adding, See, that’s why Will Smith popped that na upside his head. I ain’t condoning, but I can see how a n*a would pop him upside his head.
This statement highlights the perceived provocation that preceded the highly publicized altercation.
Beyond the immediate aftermath of the slap, Epps also detailed a personal experience where he felt slighted by Rock. He described a moment where Rock questioned his financial presentation.
he said some shit to me one time,
epps explained. That motherfker walked up to me and said, ‘You can’t act rich if you ain’t rich.’ I said, ‘Huh? What the hell?’
This interaction, as Epps recalls, felt dismissive and out of line.
Epps believes Rock failed to grasp the complexities of his public persona. What he didn’t understand was I came from a drug-dealer world, so I always liked a little diamonds,
he clarified. He thinks I’m up there trying to make the people think I got show business money and said that shit to me. I said, ‘Man, I’m rich in a whole lot of ways. Ferret-looking ass n***a.
This reveals a clash in backgrounds and perceptions between the two comedians.
Initially, Epps thought the slap was staged. However, his perspective shifted when he witnessed Smith’s raw emotion after returning to his seat.
I knew it was real when I seen Will Smith’s face when he sat down,
Epps recalled. when he said, ‘Keep my wife’s name [out of your fucking mouth]!’
The intensity of Smith’s outburst convinced Epps that the moment was genuine and not a pre-planned act.
Epps admitted he would have reacted similarly to smith, but privately. I wouldn’t have done it in
