Will Smith apologizes: ‘I was out of line and I was wrong’

By JAKE COYLE
AP Film Writer

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Will Smith has apologized to Chris Rock for slapping the comedian onstage at Sunday’s Oscars, writing in a statement that he was “out of line” and “wrong.” Smith sent the statement Monday on his Instagram page, saying he is embarrassed by his actions. Smith’s actions stunned audiences inside the ceremony and at home. The film academy condemned Smith’s behavior earlier Monday. Smith slapped Rock after the comedian made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Smith won the best actor award later in the ceremony. On Monday he apologized to the film academy, Oscar producers and viewers. Pinkett Smith responded Tuesday with a graphic on Instagram that said in part “this is a season of healing.”