Speaking of the Oscars without a mention of Will Smith? This can not be possible. It has been a year forward, but the world has not recovered from the 2022 Oscar slapgate, which featured Will Smith taking a hit at the comedian, Chris Rock. Not at least, our very own Jimmy Kimmel, who was mock-slapping every other entity with his over-the-top hilarious roasts. How could Will Smith be spared from the same? 

Following his subtle jibes at Steven Spielberg and Seth Rogen, the host did not hold back from giving a clear warning against any violence straight away picking at the King Richard star. While getting the audience to spill waves of laughter with his opening monologue of various topics, Kimmel referred to the five Irish actors that have been nominated this year.

“Which means the odds of a fight happening onstage are way up,” the host claimed, clearly referring to the mishap last year where Smith unleashed his wrath on the comedian. Kimmel further called for safety at the Oscars.

So, keeping the slaps at bay, Kimmel went on to preach the strict policies that the Academy Award Organizers have made pretty clear. “If anyone in this theatre commits an act of violence at any point during the show, you will be awarded the Oscar for best actor,” said Kimmel, making the jabs one of the most clever sides hits in history. 

Jimmy Kimmel and his jabs at Will Smith were pretty clever 

Not only that, but referring to Smith’s 19-minute-long Oscar speech last year following the slap, Kimmel also made sure that the actor is given permission to make another 19-minute-long speech following the apparent hilarious custom coming down since last year. 

Poking fun at the audience, who were busy guffawing, the host reminded once again of the crisis team. Nonetheless went on to joke around the audience’s reaction to the slap gate last year saying, “If anything unpredictable or violent happens during the ceremony. Just do what you did last year: nothing,” he said. “Sit there and do absolutely nothing. Maybe even give the assailant a hug.“

“We know this is a special night for you,” the host further continued that he will look into whether the audience is having fun, without risking his safety ever. Since that is exactly what happened last year, with the host getting a swipe across the face by the Emancipation star. 

What is your take on the matter? Do you feel it was necessary to bring up the slapgate or was it just plain harmless fun? Let us know in the comments below.