Will Smith spotted at AAFCA Awards as he receives Beacon Award for “Emancipation,” one year after the ban from the Academy Awards following his attack on Chris Rock on stage.
The last time Will Smith was on center stage at an award ceremony was in March 2022, during the Oscar hosted by Chris Rock.
But it turned out to be one rocky night for both men. Following Rock’s joke about Jada Pinkett’s alopecia, the actor motioned to the stage to plant a hot slap on his face.
This stirred cheers and criticism online, and while Smith ended up calling a truce with an apology, he received a ban from the Academy.
The “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” took on low-profile regalia, staying clear of award ceremonies while sticking to his first love—acting.
Following the release of “Emancipation” on December 9, 2022, Smith, who played the lead role, earned nominations and, so far, a victory.
Fans get to see Will Smith at AAFCA Awards, delivering an acceptance speech for the first time since the unsavory episode at the Oscars.
Will Smith talks about being spit on during the filming of EMANCIPATION while accepting the Beacon Award with Antoinw Fuqua at the African American Film Critics Association Awards (AAFCA).. @Variety @theaafca
Watch the full video on my TIKTOK. pic.twitter.com/eKYE89y6mX
— Clayton Davis (@ByClaytonDavis) March 2, 2023
Will Smith Accept Beacon Award Looking Dapper As Usual
At AAFCA Awards held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, Will Smith looked charming and dapper in his suit as he received his Beacon Award.
While strolling into the event venue where he later received an award for “Emancipation,” the shutterbugs captured his tanned striped suit, blue shirt, and black shoes.
Hours after sources confirmed Rock will be addressing the infamous slap on the Chris Rock Netflix special held live in Boston, Will Smith accepts Beacon Award.
On stage, the actor was all smiles in the company of his co-stars and “Emancipation” director Antoine Fuqua.
He began his speech by jokingly tagging the film as the most challenging of his entire career before delving into the plot that signified the slavery of the blacks.
Smith ended his lengthy speech full of laughable moments by extending a heart of gratitude to his cast and crew members.