Denzel Washington on Will Smith's Oscars drama: "Who are we to condemn?"
Denzel Washington has finally spoken out following the incident that shook the 2022 Oscars where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage.
Denzel Washington has shared his thoughts about the incident that took place at the Oscars where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage for making a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith.
Washington was speaking to Bishop TD Jakes during the 2022 International Leadership Summit.
In his response to what transpired, Washington echoed what he told Will during the Oscars.
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“There’s a saying when the devil ignores you, then you know you’re doing something wrong. The devil goes, ‘Oh no leave him alone, he’s my favorite.’
" Conversely, when the devil comes at you, maybe it’s because you're trying to do something right. And for whatever reason the devil got a hold of him that night,” said Washington.
WATCH: Will Smith smacks Chris Rock live at Oscars over a joke about his wife
Although he did not go into detail about what was discussed that day, he mentioned that he prayed for Will.
“Fortunately there were people there, not just me but others [like] Tyler Perry came immediately right over there with me. Some prayers," he added.
Washington says he believes there shouldn't be room for condemnation.
" Who are we to condemn? I don’t know all the ins and outs of this situation, but I know the only solution was prayer, the way I saw it, the way I see it,” Washington said.
Watch the interview below.
Following the incident, Will Smith apologised for his behaviour.
He has also announced that he is resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
“I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate,” Will said in a statement.
READ: 'CODA' triumphs at Oscars, as Will Smith slaps Chris Rock on stage
Currently, the Academy is busy with a formal review of the incident.
" The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night's show. We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our bylaws, standards of conduct and California law," it said in a statement.
Image courtesy of YouTube screenshot.