Will Smith and Chris Rock's Complicated History Predates the Oscars Slap

Smith took home the award for best actor in a leading role at the 2022 Oscars, and offered an apology as part of his acceptance speech. "I want to apologize to the Academy, I want to apologize to all the nominees," he said. Smith added that before returning to the stage, Denzel Washington — who comforted Smith after his incident with Rock — told the "King Richard" star, "At your highest moment, be careful; that's when the devil comes for you." Smith concluded his speech jokingly saying, "[I] hope the Academy invites me back."