King Richard, the legendary tennis icon, who is better known as Serena Williams and Venus Williams’ father, has never met Will Smith. The Hollywood star played him in the movie King Richards; the role which earned him an Oscar. However, the controversy following that win overshadowed both the win and the film.

A year later, the media-shy King Richard opened up about his thoughts on the Oscars Slapgate. Surprisingly, he joked out of the incident, hoping to get a slap from the actor one day! 

King Richard doesn’t have bitter feelings toward Will Smith  

Turns out the 80-year-old does not resent the star. In fact, he was overjoyed with his performance in the movie and for doing such a good job. King Richard was never involved in the production process, although Serena and Venus were. He and Will Smith never met or interacted, but he hopes to meet him one day and get a smack across the face. 

“I would say just, hello. And maybe, what I should do … just slap my face,” he told The Sun. 

The I Am Legend actor made headlines last year when he slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars. The comedian had joked about Jada Pinkett’s alopecia, which didn’t sit well with the 54-year-old. 

Richard had not attended the Oscars nor had he caught it live. Instead, his son Chavoita LeSane showed him the clip on YouTube the next day. He was bewildered and had thought Rock had aggravated Smith. On the other hand, LeSane thought it was a skit, like so many others. 

Unlike others, Richard appreciated the father of 3 for taking responsibility for his actions and apologizing. He also doesn’t think it’s fair to take away the Oscar from him and the 10-year ban is too cruel. However, Chavoita wasn’t happy when Smith later during his acceptance referred to being in character when he slapped Rock. Serena’s brother insisted that his father will always take the “high road” and doesn’t condone violence. 

Well, Will has become the butt of all jokes. Despite his absence at the Golden Globes, Jerrod Carmichael didn’t leave the chance to poke fun at him. 

Do you agree with King Richard? Do you also think the 10-year ban on him is too harsh?