Chris Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith's wife, during the 2022 Academy Awards by referencing her shaved head, saying, "Jada, I love you. GI Jane 2, can’t wait to see you," implying a comparison to the movie character who also had a shaved head. This comment was met with anger from Will Smith, who walked onto the stage and slapped Rock, later yelling, "Keep my wife's name out your f***ing mouth".
Additional Comments
In his 2023 standup special, Chris Rock further addressed the incident and Jada Pinkett Smith's public discussion of her relationship, mocking both the "entanglement" scandal and the couple's openness about their personal life. Rock argued that Will Smith's anger toward him was misdirected and referenced Jada's affair with her son's friend, August Alsina, adding that the situation was already public due to their own internet disclosures.
Earlier Interactions
Chris Rock had previously joked about Jada and Will Smith at the Oscars in 2016 as well, referencing controversies and award nominations, which contributed to ongoing tensions between Rock and the Smiths.