Will Smith gets rare backing from his King Richard co-star in infamous Chris Rock slap incident

Will Smith has received rare public support from his King Richard co-star Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who has defended the actor’s actions during his infamous 2022 Oscars confrontation with Chris Rock.

Ellis-Taylor, who played Oracene “Brandy” Price in the Oscar-winning film, discussed the controversy during an appearance on The Daily Beast’s Obsessed podcast. More than four years after the incident, she made it clear that she still stands behind Smith’s decision to defend his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. (People.com⁠)

“I know that he wanted to protect his wife, and I stand by that,” Ellis-Taylor said during the interview. She also criticized the idea that freedom of speech should automatically protect comments she considers deliberately hurtful or disrespectful. (People.com⁠)

The controversy dates back to the 2022 Academy Awards, when Rock was presenting the award for Best Documentary Feature. During his remarks, the comedian made a joke about Pinkett Smith’s shaved head, comparing her appearance to Demi Moore’s character in G.I. Jane. Pinkett Smith had previously spoken publicly about her alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss. (The Washington Post⁠)

Smith initially appeared to laugh at the joke before walking onto the stage and slapping Rock. He then returned to his seat and shouted at the comedian to keep his wife’s name out of his mouth. The shocking moment was broadcast to audiences around the world and immediately became one of the most talked-about incidents in Oscars history. (The Washington Post⁠)

Smith later apologized publicly, calling his behavior unacceptable and inexcusable. The Academy also launched a formal review, and Smith eventually resigned from the organization. He was subsequently banned from attending Academy events for 10 years. (The Washington Post⁠)

Despite the controversy, Ellis-Taylor says her personal experience with Smith was very different from the image created by the Oscars incident. She praised him for being caring and respectful while they worked together on King Richard, particularly toward crew members and background actors. She described his kindness on set as something she considered unusual in Hollywood. (Page Six⁠)

Her comments offer a different perspective on an incident that continues to divide public opinion. While many have condemned Smith’s decision to respond physically, Ellis-Taylor believes understanding his motivation matters.

The actress is not the first person connected to King Richard to defend Smith. Richard Williams, the real-life father portrayed by Smith in the movie, also previously expressed support for the actor and said he would not turn against him over the Oscars incident. (cbsnews.com⁠)

Years later, the slap remains part of Smith’s public story. But Ellis-Taylor’s latest comments show that some of the people who know him personally continue to separate the controversial moment from the person they experienced behind the scenes.