I deeply regret that my behaviour has stained: Will Smith pens a public apology

The Oscars 2022 stage brawl between Will Smith and Chris Rock became one of the most talked-about incidents of the night. The Best Actor Award winner at the 94th Academy Awards stunned viewers when he punched comedian Chris Rock mid-ceremony over a joke. Smith has issued a public apology in a new Instagram post.

Will apologised to Chris in a statement over his behaviour during the Oscars 2022 ceremony, claiming that he reacted emotionally to a joke made by the comedian about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith's physical condition. 

The actor described himself as a "work in progress," saying that his acts were inappropriate and that the violence was unacceptable.

Will stated in his first statement since the event, 

"Chris, I'd like to openly apologise to you. I was both out of line and incorrect. I'm embarrassed, and my actions do not reflect the guy I aspire to be. Violence has no place in a world of love and peace."

The actor also expressed regret to his King Richard family, particularly Serena and Venus Williams, who were present when he won his first Academy Award for his role as Richard William on screen. He wrote, 

"I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world. I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behaviour has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us." 

The Academy has also recently declared that an official investigation into the incident will be undertaken, with the goal of determining next steps and punishments.