Wanda Sykes Reflects on Oscars Incident with Will Smith

LOS ANGELES, CA — Wanda Sykes recently discussed her experience hosting the Oscars in 2022 alongside Amy Schumer and Regina Hall, a gig that is typically a career highlight for comedians. In an interview, Sykes revealed that she nearly forgot she hosted the ceremony, saying, ‘I forgot about that.’ This admission reflects how overshadowed their performances were by a shocking incident involving Will Smith.

During the live telecast, comedian Chris Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith‘s shaved head, a result of her alopecia. Smith, in a moment that drew worldwide attention, walked onto the stage and slapped Rock, later returning to his seat to yell, ‘Keep my wife’s name out of your f—ing mouth.’

Sykes noted that after the incident, people often forget she was one of the hosts, stating, ‘People talk to me about that night without even mentioning, ‘Oh yeah, you hosted, right?” She emphasized that she cherished working with Schumer and Hall, but the slap distorted the focus of the night.

Following the altercation, Smith won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in ‘King Richard.’ He later issued a public apology, saying, ‘My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable.’

Sykes had previously mentioned that Smith never reached out to her after the incident, but she updated that situation, sharing, ‘He did call. I had COVID or a bad cold… But he did call.’ This acknowledgment marks a change from her earlier stance on the matter.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences launched an investigation into Smith’s actions, which resulted in him resigning from the Academy and being banned from attending any Academy events for a decade.

Despite the chaotic events of that night, Sykes continues to reflect on the experience, asserting her desire to maintain a positive view of her hosting role.