In the moments following Will Smith and Chris Rock’s altercation, Questlove took to the stage to thank the Academy for naming his film “Summer of Soul” Best Documentary, but once the broadcast cut to a commercial break, some attendees began to swarm the Smiths to share their support.
Amongst them was fellow Oscar nominee — and Will Smith’s mentor — Denzel Washington, as well as other stars like Bradley Cooper and Tyler Perry (via People). Smith would then go on to win Best Actor for his role as Richard Williams in “King Richard,” and in his tearful speech, revealed the words of wisdom Washington had shared with him moments earlier (via CNN).
“At your highest moment be careful, that’s when the devil comes for you,” Smith shared. Fans were impressed by Washington’s poise. As one user wrote on Twitter, “I refuse to behave like Will Smith. I refuse to behave like Chris Rock. I prefer to behave like Denzel Washington. In a very uncomfortable and heated moment, he gave wisdom, understanding, correction and comfort. #Oscars2022.”
Another wrote, “Only Denzel Washington could turn a chaotic moment and career low for Will Smith into a beautiful moment. That man is the GOAT [greatest of all time].”
One thing is for sure: It was an Oscars ceremony no one will soon forget.
