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It was a slap heard around the world. And apparently, that aftertaste continues to reverberate nearly two years later.
Yes, as we prepare to announce the 2025 Oscar nominees, many are looking back at what may be the most memorable moment in the history of the awards show.
Of course, we’re talking about the moment Will Smith slapped Chris Rock after the comic made a joke about Will’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Will Smith still holds a grudge, sources claim
Will doesn’t suffer much damage as a result of the slap. In fact, he won his first Oscar about an hour later.
He received a 10-year ban from the Oscars, but I can’t imagine he’s too upset about the slap on the wrist (sorry for the pun).
But despite the fact that Smith’s career bounced back nicely last year. Bad Boys: Ride or Die It grossed over $210 million at the box office, proving that Will is still collecting box office success. Apparently he still holds a grudge against Chris.


“Will has the last laugh and loves it,” says a source familiar with the situation. In contact.
The source added that Smith is “never going to forgive Chris for ruining his life, even if he has managed to pick up the pieces over the past year or so.”
Sources believe Will remains furious that the incident has tarnished his reputation as a nice guy.
Will apologized to Chris in a video he shared in July 2022. But despite that act of repentance, sources insist Smith’s feelings for Locke haven’t changed.


“He still hates the man and his smug attitude,” the source says.
Hopes for a reconciliation between the former friends may have been dashed by Chris’ stand-up special released in March 2023.
At the end of time, Rock attacked Smith with a ferocious takedown. And fans didn’t forget that the special was filmed in Jada’s hometown of Baltimore.
Understandably, Will (reportedly) wasn’t too happy.
“In Will’s opinion, Chris is not the victim here,” the source continued.
“Many people would agree with Will and think that what’s happening to Chris is karma for refusing to talk to Will and accept his apology.”
So it looks like the Oscars’ most infamous feud isn’t over yet. No one knows if Chris will attend this year’s ceremony, but if he does, he won’t have to worry about clashing with Will again.