It was the slap heard and seen around the world. The moment Will Smith struck Chris Rock at the Oscars has been seen and replayed millions of times. In fact, it's still referenced in jokes to this day. That's why Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who co-starred with Smith on King Richard has opted to share his thoughts on the situation.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Ellis-Taylor's comments came during a recent appearance on the "Obsessed" podcast.
"I know that he wanted to protect his wife," Ellis-Taylor said. "I stand by that, and I stand with him for that."
Ellis-Taylor then continued by sharing her opinion on Chris Rock's joke toward Jada Pinkett-Smith, and how that led to Will Smith's reaction.
"I think that, you know, this idea that First Amendment rights should protect everybody? I don't think it should necessarily protect a-holes," Ellis-Taylor said. "... I really don't, especially if you're causing harm."
The incident involving Smith and Rock occured just minutes before the legendary actor was award an Oscar for 'Best Actor' following his role as Richard Williams. Ellis-Taylor was also in attendence that night, as she'd been nominated for 'Best Supporting Actress.'
Unfortunaltey, Smith winnning an Oscar will forever be overshadowed by his decision to slap Rock, and opinion on whether he was justified will remain split.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Praises Will Smith
Later in the episode, Ellis-Taylor revealed what it's like working with Smith.
"Will Smith is the most caretaking actor that I've ever worked with," she said. "He just would not allow anybody to be treated poorly in his presence. He would just not allow it. And I cannot tell you how rare that is in this job. I will always have a great deal of affection and care for him because he acted that way."
Smith has since apologized to Rock with an apology posted to social media.
"I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness."
Still, it's unlikely we're ever going to see Smith and Rock in close proximity to each other again.
