Chris Rock Reflects on Forgiveness and Hints at Possible Oscars Hosting Return

The comedian addressed the infamous 2022 Oscars slap by Will Smith, emphasizing personal growth and leaving the door open for a future hosting role.

Chris Rock attended the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars Party, marking his first return to a major Oscars-related event since the 2022 incident with Will Smith.
When asked about hosting the Oscars again, Rock stated, 'You never know,' while emphasizing the importance of forgiveness for oneself and others.
The 2022 altercation occurred after Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head, unaware of her alopecia condition, prompting Smith to slap him onstage.
Will Smith was banned from Academy events for 10 years following the incident, and he later issued multiple public apologies to Rock and others impacted.
Rock, who hosted the Oscars in 2005 and 2016, praised Conan O’Brien’s performance as the host of the 2025 ceremony, calling it 'amazing' and suggesting he host every year.