Traditionally, the Oscars epitomize glamor and prestige, yet it is the moments of controversy that often stand out. The 2022 ceremony witnessed one such unforgettable incident: Will Smith slapping Chris Rock. This infamous altercation, now often humorously referenced during high-profile events, sparked widespread discussion, with 'Oscar slap' becoming a top-searched term. However, recent developments suggest a shift in the narrative, as Smith and Rock appear to be on the path to reconciliation rather than harboring resentment.

Two years have passed since the conflict etched itself into The Academy's history, prompting a need for the involved parties to finally seek a peace treaty.

In a recent interview with The Mirror, Cedric The Entertainer, a close pal to both Will Smith and Chris Rock, revealed that the clash of titans now has reached a truce settlement. He highlighted that Smith and Rock have understood that they had “crossed the line” and are on the road to reconciliation. The Neighborhood star admitted that there was more to the incident than people saw and way more to the narrative than tabloids focused on.

Cedric admitted that the slap stemmed from deeply "personal" reasons, citing years of Chris Rock's taunts about Will Smith's marriage and relationship with Jada Pinkett Smith. It appeared to be a culmination of pent-up resentment that erupted into the infamous event that defined the 2022 Oscar ceremony. Cedric further revealed his understanding of the complexities surrounding the incident, expressing confidence that they would eventually navigate through the intensity of the moment to gain clarity. 

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Witnessing their journey toward reconciliation, therefore, filled him with pride, particularly regarding Smith, whom he describes as a “solid human being”. Bearing in mind how the Hancock actor had previously contemplated his actions as well, Cedric’s sentiments bear more significance. 

During an appearance on The Daily Show in 2022, Will Smith reflected on the infamous Oscar slap event during Chris Rock’s joke about his wife’s hair. The actor recounted how he “just lost it” during the heat of the moment while Trevor Noah tried to understand the complexities that led to the incident. Smith confessed that his greatest challenge had been to come to terms with his actions and their repercussions, and that has taken a lot to forgive himself “for being human”.

His apology, however, led to a flurry of mixed reactions within the industry. Although the journey to amendment seemed like a long path back then, unpredictable of its verdict, with Cedric’s recent revelations, the incident now appears like a ghost of the past. Given that both parties involved have reached a mutual agreement to forgive, it is anticipated that the incident will gradually lose its significance because of the overshadowing presence of positivity.

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What do you think of Will Smith and Chris Rock's peace treaty two years following the infamous Oscar slap? Let us know in the comments below!