Speaking on “The Bill Simmons Podcast” on March 28, comedian Jimmy Kimmel told the host his unfiltered feelings about how the Will Smith-Chris Rock altercation has tarnished the “Men In Black” star’s public image, and possibly even his career going forward. When host Simmons called that moment, “the craziest celebrity altercation ever,” Kimmel replied, “Yeah, especially when you consider the characters involved,” and then reminded everyone that previously, the “King Richard” Oscar winner was known as “the nicest guy in Hollywood.”
“This is like if Tom Hanks got up and smacked somebody across the face… it’s the only thing comparable, right?” Kimmel stated. Later in the conversation, Kimmel shared that this incident has harmed Smith’s reputation in town and his image as a Tom Hanks-esque figure, joking that there wasn’t a single person in the world who didn’t like Smith before he accosted Rock live-on-air. “Now, he doesn’t have a single comedian friend, that’s for sure. … I think they all feel like they’re next.”
Since that wild moment on Sunday night, Smith posted a public apology on his official Instagram, apologizing to Rock, the Academy, and everyone who watched the moment around the world. Jada Pinkett Smith also seemingly referenced the moment on her Insta, posting an image on March 29 with the text overlay, “This is a season for healing and I’m here for it.” Rock has not publicly issued a statement addressing the altercation as of this writing.
