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Whoopi Goldberghas a positive outlook when it comes toWill Smith’s future.
TheViewco-host, 66, said on Monday’s episode that she believes Smith, 53, will bounce back from the recent controversy surrounding him after he slappedChris Rockat last weekend’s 94thAcademy Awards— comparing him toLouis C.K.andKanye Westbeing honored at Sunday’s 64thGrammy Awards.
“Some people found that controversial, but the show didn’t have anything like last week’s controversy, which is fine,” Goldbergsaid. “Also some ofWill Smith’s future projects are in question. The question is, does he have a path back? Yes, of course he does. … He’ll be fine, he’ll be back. No worries.”
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Goldberg previously acknowledged that Rock, 57, “was the victim” but argued thatthe Oscarsproducers “made the right decision” in not removing Smith from the show. “This is not the first time craziness has happened onstage, but this is the first time we’ve seen anybody assault anybody onstage,” she said last week.
The debacle at last week’s show unraveled after Rock made light ofJada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss (Pinkett Smith has been open aboutliving with alopecia). “Jada, I love ya.G.I. Jane 2, can’t wait to see ya,” he joked.
Her husband then walked onto the stage and slapped Rock in the face, leaving the audience and live viewers around the world stunned. “Oh wow,” said Rock as Smith made his way back to his seat. “Will Smithjust smacked the s— out of me.”
“Keep my wife’s name out your f—ing mouth!” Smith yelled up to the stage after taking his seat. TheKing Richardstar went on to win best actor later in the night.
RELATED VIDEO:Will SmithResigns from the Academy After Smacking Chris Rock During Oscars: ‘I Am Heartbroken’
“I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct,” he said in a statement sent to PEOPLE. “My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable. The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy.”
“I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken. I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film,” Smith added.
The Academy has sinceaccepted his resignation, adding that it will “continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18.”
source: people.com
