Will Smith says he “understands” if viewers aren’t “ready” to watch a new movie after the Oscar smack

Will Smith shared a message for those who may not want to see his new movie due to his behavior at the Oscars.

emancipationa new drama out training day Director Antoine Fuqua, is the first new Smith film to be released after actor punched Chris Rock in the face onstage at the March 2022 awards ceremony.

He slammed Rock after the comedian made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Since the incident, Smith, who was convicted for his actions, has twice apologized and resigned as a member of the Academy.

During the promotional trail for emancipationSmith was asked by Journalist Kevin McCarthy what he would say to someone who doesn’t feel “ready” to see him directing in a movie after being slapped.

“I totally understand – if someone isn’t ready, I would absolutely respect that and give them the freedom to not be ready,” he said. “My biggest concern is for my team – Antoine has done what I believe to be the greatest work of his entire career.”

He continued, “The people on this team have done some of the best work of their entire careers and my deepest hope is that my actions will not disadvantage my team.

“At this point, I’m working for it. I hope that the material – the power of the film, the timeliness of the story – I hope that the good that can be done will at least open people’s hearts to see, to recognize, the incredible artists in and around them and to support this film.”

Shortly after slapping Rock, the actor won his first-ever Oscar for Best Actor King Richardand gave a tearful speech.

The actor is fighting for another nomination after his role in emancipation – However, should he receive a nod, he will not be able to attend the ceremony.

In the film, Smith plays Peter, a slave who escapes from a Louisiana plantation.

emancipation Coming to AppleTV+ on December 9th.