Oscars Organizers Reportedly Discussed Removing Will Smith From Ceremony After He Slapped Chris Rock

Having Will Smith removed from Sunday’s Oscars ceremony after the King Richard star slapped comedian Chris Rock was an option that was “definitely discussed seriously,” according to a new report.

Citing an “industry source” on Monday, Peopledetailed the alleged behind-the-scenes confusion that erupted after Smith got on the stage and did indeed slap Rock, who had seconds earlier made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith.

According to the source, “Having Will removed was definitely discussed seriously,” with the unnamed party also noting that part of the immediate post-incident process for those behind the cameras was to determine “if it was a stunt.”

Complex has reached out to an Oscars rep for comment. In an initial statement, the Academy said it “does not condone violence of any form.”

Shortly after the moment in question, which Rock himself immediately described as “the greatest night in the history of television,” Diddy gave a comment to Page Six in which he claimed that it’s now “all love” between the two. “That’s not a problem. That’s over. I can confirm that,” Diddy, who was a presenter at this year’s ceremony, said.

Rock declined to file a police report over the incident, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed on Monday. Smith, who won in this year’s Best Actor category for his portrayal of Richard Williams, did not mention Rock during an acceptance speech delivered later on in Sunday’s broadcast. He did, however, extend an apology to the Academy and his fellow nominees.

“I look like the crazy father, just like they said about Richard Williams,” Smith said in his speech. “But love will make you do crazy things.” Smith wrapped up his speech with another mention of the Academy, saying he hopes they will invite him back to the ceremony in the future.