May 2, 2022
By Vanessa Guevara
Staff Writer
The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, is known as a celebratory occasion where the most talented and accomplished people in the film industry are recognized in the presence of their peers.
Unfortunately, this year’s award ceremony, which took place on March 27 in Hollywood, California, had a very different tone as a result of actor Will Smith’s poor judgment.
During this year’s award show, comedian Chris Rock took the stage to announce the award winner in the documentary feature category. Although many of Rock’s jokes received positive feedback and laughs from the audience, Smith felt Rock went too far when he made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss, which is a result of alopecia. Rock alleges he did not know about her medical condition and would not have made the joke had he been aware of it.
Smith immediately reacted to the joke about his wife with laughter. However, when he turned his head and saw she was upset, he jumped to her defense, walking onstage and slapping the comedian across the face. Smith then returned to his seat and started screaming at Rock.
Despite the incident, Smith was allowed to remain at the Oscars and ended up winning the awards for Best Picture and Best Actor for his role as Richard Williams in the movie “King Richard.” In his acceptance speech, Smith apologized for his inappropriate actions.
This instance highlighted Smith’s inability to deal with conflict.
I have always been a big fan of Smith and all his movies, especially “Aladdin,” for which Smith voiced the lovable Genie. Therefore, when I found out what happened at the Oscars, I was in disbelief and very upset.
Will Smith’s reaction highlights the dangers of toxic masculinity, which pressures men to act and behave in a macho fashion. On Oscar night, Smith exemplified this dangerous adherence to traditional male gender roles. He took on the persona of a tough guy trying to defend his wife when he should have just stayed seated. If his wife were really that hurt about the comment, he should have comforted her instead of making a scene. Smith was trying to show that he is mentally and physically strong, but his approach backfired on him.
This instance highlighted Smith’s inability to deal with conflict. There was definitely a better way to go about the situation, but instead, he disrespected Rock and everyone else at the Oscars, especially the hosts and award-winners.
While I lost all respect for Smith, I developed a respect for Rock. He could have responded with violence, but instead, he acted maturely and appropriately. He continued with his segment even though he was confused and in disbelief. It takes a very mature and professional person to maintain composure in that situation.
The Academy has decided to take action by banning Smith from the Oscars for the next 10 years. He will not be permitted to attend any Academy events or programs in person or virtually. Smith can still be nominated for an award, but he would not be able to pick it up in person or virtually if he were to win.
While Smith clearly acted incorrectly, he should not have to face such strong repercussions because everyone makes mistakes. He has already been bashed by fans on the internet and faced criticism from the media. That kind of criticism is enough to destroy a person, so he should not face further consequences from the Academy.
Even though Smith was out of line, he is learning from his mistake and is trying to become a more self-aware person. He knows not to repeat this behavior ever again, and that is all one can ask for.
