Stephen A. Smith FINALLY gives his take on “The Slap” after Chris Rock’s live Netflix special

Stephen A. Smith sits down after watching Chris Rock's live Netflix special to give his reaction, his feelings on it and where he thinks Chris Rock was coming from. He also finally gives his straight shooter opinion on Will Smith's slap.
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Stephen A. Smith knows mercy…when it’s warranted. On “Know Mercy” Stephen A. will give you his straight shooter point of view beyond the world of sports, breaking barriers and pulling back the curtain on politics, entertainment, and business. Three times a week, you’ll hear his unfiltered opinions on front page news and pertinent cultural events, as well as interviews with outspoken celebrities and thought leaders across the societal arena. You’re guaranteed to be entertained, informed, and motivated. And one thing will be clear: you don't need to know sports to know mercy. “Know Mercy with Stephen A. Smith” is a presentation of Cadence13, an Audacy studio.

[@loisoller16]

Strike 1 the slap Strike 2 keep my wife’s name out of your mouth…….. Strike 3 no apology when presented award Strike 4 party into the night Will & Jada have zero remorse just damage control programmed responses. Chris Rock’s genius has never been greater. His strength discipline and courage unmatched.

[@Jooniebug]

Absolutely 💯 right

[@aaronmarshall3559]

Right!!!

[@rodsutton5458]

Factz!!!

[@maryewilson2009]

Thank you for your crystal ball reading.

[@FortressofShred]

Look what Jada has done to Will? She destroyed him.

[@bolladeen]

The fact Chris chosed to get paid from his show and let the world enjoy watching him 'slap' Smith back was awesome!

[@bohemienneprincesse8665]

"chosed" isn't a word! this weak & obvious attempt to criticize Rock highlights your issues...

[@jackiepetrosky4611]

Yes!

[@milococo7511]

Love Chris Rock and respect him love from South Africa

[@dabsanyone3752]

I sure do hope that Netflix pulls that show

[@agnesstewart2604]

​@@bohemienneprincesse8665 ⅘gŕ⁴4⁴⁴4⁴⁷

[@leroybyrd6645]

Chris is the best example of what a good Brother is supposed to do in this situation. He nailed it. Passionately! And the timing!

[@Nhamo3]

You are right.

[@luisguevara7402]

True

[@lucy2014]

Absolutely he handled it right. He waited for a year and stuck it to Will Smith a year later. I loved it 😂

[@RealLadi228]

At the end of the Netflix Show...Chris held back tears as he left the stage ..my heart went with him.

[@teressaclark4605]

Yes he wanted to cry , it took a lot to stand up and talk about someone hurt u. All that he calls someone wife she set Will up. Plus Chris got kids to made us cry again.

[@teressaclark4605]

Myb God set this up to bring light to this type of stuff.

[@morganepg]

It was heartbreaking

[@RealLadi228]

@@teressaclark4605 When it happened I couldn't stop thinking about his kids...

[@RealLadi228]

@@morganepg TRULY

[@clarissar1528]

Will Smith single-handedly muddled an absolutely historical night with his reaction. So many great things were happening and did happen that night that should've been hugely celebrated but the slap overshadowed all of it.

[@equalxs1]

Blk on Blk crime?

[@sueprator9314]

Amen. I remember seeing Will Packer doing a promo for the upcoming show about a week before so I really was conscious of who was producing...

[@derekgaliee4351]

He is a wimp Beta male. Most people in America Don't care about Leftist Hollywood industry & their crappy Award Show .

[@MrGrace]

​@@equalxs1you guys act like Black crime is somehow worse than any other. Do you care about wht on wht crime? Theres more of that in this country than anything.

[@mattthespyd3r969]

​@@MrGrace black on black crime is a huge problem in the black community. IDK why you are trying to minimize the issue?

[@chinggaysanchez2598]

I cried at the end of Chris Rock's Netflix special. Its like I feel all the emotions he kept in that one year that passed. :(

[@anthonycraig274]

I went on his comedy tour (which was very close to the Netflix special) I laughed, then went seriously, stood up and clapped.

[@lisamcgruder9596]

I did too😢😢😢

[@MQB-dz8wr]

Proud of Chris for taking his power back in the best way he knew how. He was so patient and waited an entire year to respond in the most calculated genius way possible. Hope to see more of Chris winning. He deserves it

[@jearl3054]

Well Chris has another $20M coming to him for his second Netflix Special.

[@omarsabeur9039]

​@@jearl3054 Imagine resisting your childish emotional impulses so that you can make your future brighter and more successful . Chris Rock is actually a good role model for all people. Be mindful and contemplative before you act/react.

[@jearl3054]

@@omarsabeur9039 I agree.

[@MichiganHendough]

Chris is a cornball lol 😂

[@alexthechef7161]

@@MichiganHendough a $20 million richer cornball😂😂😂😂😂

[@esthermohammed6713]

A silent tongue is a wise tongue. That is how Chris Rock handled the situation with grace. Chris comeback after a year was magnificent and what a great show. I also got emotional when Chris outlined what happened at the Oscar. I love you Chris and continue to being the great comedian you are ❤️

[@mkfloyd5]

It woukd have bern wiser had Chris not intentionally humiliated Jada...

[@jeanniemoses9680]

Well said

[@arleneclark5580]

It was so stupid. It was a monountmental moment and Will messed up. It could been handled away from the public.

[@dominiquejones3805]

The guy who did gave the slap was the 1 on TV crying smh

[@Trey_W]

@@dominiquejones3805 😂😂

[@OmarLovenkraftSL]

I'm a Blackman, and I can't get over this slap by Will Smith very disappointed. Still have not watch any of his movies. Going to take a lot of time. I can't look at this man the same. My money will stay in my pocket going forward, this is how I will show my disappointment.

[@Mina-vr1kw]

💯

[@Ray1969.]

What Omar said!!

[@MrDonsullivan]

I'm white and I used to like Will and respected his work. Haven't seen anything of his since the slap, no cool rerun movies, nothing new, don't think I'll see him ever again.

[@shannontarrant1826]

It was childish and disgusting for what will did but its not that bad in my opinion it's wrong and will acted without thinking about his actions would be and I understand protecting his woman's feelings but it was a joke!!! And he should of had a nuff resreant but it lost it and now he has to reep what he sowed!! Still love will!! But so glad how Chris Rock handled it and got his shot back at him not long ago PROP'S TO ROOK!!!

[@stephanieharris4595]

I agree. Right now I can’t watch his movies. I’m still disappointed.

[@chuckg100]

As Stephen A said "I haven't been able to watch anything with Will Smith in it since the incident", I'm completely in agreement.

[@tikneshiabeauford7289]

Same here. I just can't do it.

[@pluggedinjaye]

the crazy part is for me, i dont even do it intentionally. Its just like, his whole image and the way I view him is different. Still got love for the brotha but man....how you do that?

[@isaacbarlow8247]

Completely agree

[@cegb551]

Same here.

[@adam-i5x6o]

Emancipation was good

[@lawyahxyahsu5629]

Not many people could have turned a moment of being slapped in public into a joke... Chris is the G.O.A.T.

[@Trey_W]

It was an easy transition. What Jada’s wife did was a joke.

[@RainbowFlowerCrow]

​@@Trey_W "Jada's wife" LMAO!! 🤣

[@smak387]

It was a fake slap

[@rdogletree4543]

​@@Trey_W😂😂😂😂 He act like the one wearing the dress

[@rdogletree4543]

​@@smak387Oh hell no, you gotta be a fool if you believe that.

[@lourdesgreen2213]

Not just emasculation it's abuse. I cried listening to Chris Rock. You could feel how deeply hurt he was. His professionalism in continuing after being slapped.

[@RealLadi228]

Exactly Abusive

[@Sid-ri1iy]

Will was emasculated. He tried to humiliate Chris last year, and Chris handled it so well, he didn't look bad, as could have happened to anyone or anyone on a bad day.

[@blacknight1184]

So do you think it was okay to call his girl a b****

[@blacknight1184]

The way you dog people out black people would you have done that to all them people you say will wouldn't have hit

[@theunrestrictedfreeagent1]

@@blacknight1184 So do you think a woman like her (who emasculates her husband on every occasion she can) is anything but that??? In a word YES, that was absolutely ok.

[@JennyLouLou]

The slap incident was so degrading and despicable. Seeing Chris's display of raw emotions during the special is only further proof of that.

[@rfreeman7139]

I agree with you. It was so disrespect.

[@aatiti2011]

For real...

[@BobMinelli]

And might i add...."SEEING" Chris Rock display those raw-emotions was MAGICAL. (loved it)

[@ajeroneski7338]

He wasn’t even tellin jokes no more and was just going in 😂 🔥

[@JennyLouLou]

@BobMinelli Yes it sure was. I also think it validated the public outrage over the slap itself.

[@mjdsouthsf]

What Chris did on his Netflix Special was worth doing, and he did it extremely well.

[@rodney8078]

Chris is and as always THE MAN!--WITH INTELLIGENCE!!& A Grace!

[@moneyball7908]

It was watching him party later that night smiling and laughing that really made my mind up about him

[@paulchristian7693]

Will Smith movie has not done well and has lost money.

[@Footplanet34]

That was such a psychological disturbance. Dancing, rapping his own songs. Maniacal shit. I don't even have time for Will Smith.

[@Nhamo3]

Will messed up big time.

[@aineliene]

This!!! Feeling sorry after you're practically canceled, isn't really being sorry.

[@darcymoon2109]

Sometimes, when people have so much materially and have so much opportunity, and they take that and throw it in the dirt the don’t deserve a Second chance.

[@ayandanxumalo961]

Nailed it! Will Smith showed no remorse until his PR team told him to apologize.

[@joseph9531]

Indeed!

[@rjj-52]

I have a feeling that Will still doesn't know where the source of his rage came from. He was in complete denial of Jada's humiliating influence and how it played a dominant role in his uncontrolled actions at the Oscar's that night. And I'd be willing to bet dollars to donuts that he still hasn't figured it out; hence, no real remorse. Denial tends to do that to a person.

[@AT-zl6dk]

I’m not sure 🤔 if he was filming the movie emancipation or not but if so I’m sure boiling point of life and emotions from his character.

[@verginone]

Yes agreed, if he was remorseful he would have apologised when receiving his award but he didn't.

[@nikkim8204]

Exactly!!! It would have been more genuine if he had apologized that night, even the next day.

[@michellemuldrew827]

This Netflix Special was COMIC GOLD!!! The ending? Absolutely Brilliant! Will Smith whining now? The irony. His egregious behavior usurped everything, Black production team, King Richard, Quest Love! I agree with every single thing you said.

[@dominiquejones3805]

Chris wa son fire n this special

[@deniseclay472]

This was a very insightful and intelligent dialog on the Oscar tragedy and thanks for reminding of the impact also on Will Packard;I went from loving Will Smith to having a lack of respect for him and now loving Chris Rock and admiring his smart strategizing

[@sandrasolomon5757]

Thank you, Stephen for having the courage to talk about it.

[@marjoriejohnson6535]

And Jada had the gall to mess up this first black man's produced show after the CRAP she laid on Chris years ago when Will didn't get nominated for a movie....she us one toxic B ****. I never want to hear or see either of them again.

[@wandaalexisalexander5820]

I gave Chris Rock a standing ovation in my living room while a tear fell from my eyes. I FELT him and am now a hyper fan. Thanks Steve Smith. This piece had me subscribe. Well done. 👏🏽

[@judithmulenga4850]

#MeToo and I was watching in Africa

[@travet1000]

He was Brilliant. He had me in tears of joy.

[@MrMzcurlz1]

Me too🎉

[@teefree8041]

😒

[@Irish-Rose]

Chris Rock told the TRUTH! And it was Hilarious!

[@sweetivy23]

Chris continues to display nothing but class and I appreciated his special and will continue to support him. I would have sued Will and the fact that he didn’t really says a lot about him. I love Chris because he’s an intelligent and thoughtful comedian. He’s my favorite!

[@justjoan4010]

Chris Rock’s kids endured that humiliation to their father by Will Smith. Chris rocked the entire Netflix show. Great job Chris. Glad the comics showed up. A message has to be sent out to the public idiots who wants to attack.

[@kermitfrog593]

The entire Rock family was humiliated that night. Tony Rock is still pissed about it.

[@christinan5382]

Heck yeah!! If that was one of my siblings oh.. I’m not one for violence to others, but my blood?!! My sibling blood?!! No sir. He would have to put a restraining order out on me because I would be TAUNTING him everywhere and everyday. His karma is Jada but I don’t think he even knows the bad karma he brought on himself that night. I’m sure he’s looking over his shoulder because Chris has MANY siblings. 😆😬

[@katlap3101]

That’s what I thought too and that bothers me to no end, his bro has every right to feel that way, I still can’t get over that

[@obtattz_throwbacksclaud7545]

Dave chapel sent a real message. Chris rock still soft and I don’t respect him

[@dolphinsrr]

@@obtattz_throwbacksclaud7545 liar

[@vaar2742]

I loved the end of the special when Chris explained why he didn't physically fight back....because he was "raised", brought a tear to my eye because those words were from deep inside of him, not said to make us laugh. I was "raised" too Chris and it has helped me many times over the years. Take care.

[@marquettegloves9907]

He didn't fight back because he was on TV, and getting paid to be professional for a job. That's what he is talking about when he says he has parents and was raised well. Meaning he has class and wouldn't publicly embarrass them. Don't misunderstand Chris as saying you should never fight back or defend yourself. You not fighting back in your private life, has nothing to do with being raised well. It just means you're a coward. Take care.

[@vaar2742]

@@marquettegloves9907 who is saying you shouldn't fight back and defend yourself? You don't know me? That is not what I am saying. I have four younger siblings and fought to defend them my whole life....as well as my own children in every way necessary. I am NOT a coward by any means.

[@marquettegloves9907]

@@vaar2742 you are saying it, because you said it. You said Chris explained the reason he didn't fight back was because he was raised. You then said you too were raised. You're saying you relate to him... and this is specifically about fighting back, not being raised in general. So I pointed out, unlike Chris who was on TV, you not fighting back in your private life because you were "raised", just makes you a coward. That's all.

[@yvonneshelton2505]

@@vaar2742 this was his fight back. I think.

[@Tommydiistar]

@@marquettegloves9907 you know it takes a bigger man not to fight back though sometimes you assess the situation and see that this idiot of a person is baiting you to go to prison that’s why a lot of you guys end up there and then crying for mommy saying I wish I could take it back

[@tinarichardson3109]

I am Rocking with Chris. He was tearful this man hurt him to the cord. Chris admired Will. Let Chris get this pain out. This is Chris therapy and how he chose to handle this was Brilliant.

[@marklayne1781]

Chris Rock went Mortal Kombat mode on Will and Jada "Entanglement" Smith. He finished both of them simultaneously without lifting a finger. An Eye 👁 For An Eye 👁, A Tooth For A Tooth and A Slap For A Slap. Chris Rock is no joke on that comedic stage.

[@aatiti2011]

😂😂😂😂 Chris went "a tooth for a jaw" 😂

[@charismalorelye4516]

An eye for an eye would be Chris slapping both Jada and Will Smith at 2023 Oscars.

[@issatagibateh1724]

Exactly

[@serendipity6277]

Chris was the ultimate professional in the worst scenario possible knowing what an important night it was for so many. The fact that the abuser wasn’t arrested on the spot or asked to leave by the producer or the academy is mind boggling. I’m glad Chris got the support he deserves from Netflix and his peers. I remember Jim Carey and other comedians being outraged but not many others were as vocal. I hope he can finally sleep now. What a year it must have been, he probably didn’t have any good uninterrupted night’ sleep. Wishing Chris all the best in the years to come. My prayers go to everyone involved including those that were supposed to shine that night. Imagine finally being nominated for a rare Oscar or even winning but no one remembers you. Sad and totally unfair.

[@donnas6474]

Amen to that

[@mdred2276]

So true. All I remember is the slap … can’t remember the nominee’s, movies, etc.

[@joannebrennan7144]

Serendipity6277, I couldn't agree more..Will & Jada should've been immediately escorted out of the Oscar's, & Will arrested & charged with assault! Security was completely incompetent that night because they allowed Will to go back to his seat seething with anger, & cussing in a threatening tone to Chris & could've possibly went back up & assaulted him again! And for those who feel they can tell a grown man( Chris) when, or how he should feel or respond to being assaulted over a joke should understand that NO ONE has the right to decide how a person responds, or feels after being humiliated in front of millions, including his children & family! Bravo 👏 👏 too Chris Rock for handling himself like a TRUE professional, & standing up to his bully( Will) in his Netflix special by telling the 💯 truth about Will's misplaced anger, & Jada's huge part in this disastrous mess they both created during Oscar's night!!!!

[@geridinewhite869]

The police was on the scene,and told Chris that they can charge smith on 3 different things,and asked Chris what did he want them to do . Chris was adamant in his response when he told them no ,he didn't want to press charges .

[@benjyakhile1239]

😅

[@solomonbradley1555]

Stepen A, you did an excellent job. So proud of the way you dissected the moment.

[@marquezsmith8889]

Chris Rock live streaming a special on Netflix was the start of something big for all comedians, smart move... it was great, his presence on stage speaks volumes, we were all expecting "the slap" to be acknowledged throughout the show, but he kept us entertained and made us wait until the end... he opened another door for live streaming.. good job Rock

[@humanversion3163]

The heartbreaking, and ultimately effective component of that final piece is that you can see how much he hates to HAVE to say these things.

[@lowo1]

Very much so.

[@khronin]

its heartbreaking for will--chris rock had a show in which he documented his early childhood and scuffles and bullying---wills slap did nothing to rock except a sore jaw for 2 days--I use to be a big will smith fan from his days as a rapper--now I will never support or go see any movie he is in

[@freddiet6807]

The fact that Will Smith was laughing until that Narcissist gave him the look is all you need to know about that relationship. What he did is unforgivable. I’m completely done with him!!!!

[@rodney8078]

Will, you like to fight?

[@rodney8078]

And I've asked quite a few times?🖕--u jive wanna be.

[@janetclaireSays]

This is the strongest and most accurate analysis of 'the slap' and of Chris Rock's Netflix live performance. Also, you are the first one to mention the fact that whatever money Chris made from Netflix, he could have made more by suing Will Smith. As for Jada Pinkett-Smith, she is a narcissist. All attention is good attention to narcissists. She's even loving this take down from Chris Rock. It's attention. Will Smith should just keep his mouth shut now and don't make it about himself. Let Rock have HIS moment.

[@TCH534]

Y’all think he could have made 40 million from suing will? I’m not so sure on that.

[@janetclaireSays]

@@TCH534 he could have sued him for more than that. And even if he could only get 40 million, isn't Will Smith lucky that Rock chose to get it from a job with Netflix than a lawsuit against him. Jim Carrey said it best the day after the slap on the Oscars. He said he would have filed a lawsuit agains Smith the next day for $200 million because not only was it assault, but it was a humiliation in front of millions of people and recorded for posterity and will be shown over and over again throughout his life - even the day he dies it will be one of the first things that shows up in the media. Chris Rock definitely had a case.

[@RealLadi228]

Jada is so jealous of Will she is definitely a covert op!

[@RealLadi228]

@@janetclaireSays Humiliation for his family and kids for life Absolutely 🥺

[@jonjap8363]

@@TCH534are you nuts?

[@Rey-pl5xh]

You hit All The Points Stephen A. Well Said!!! 💪

[@donnaflynn8064]

Thank you for covering the Red Table Talk episode with Will and Jada discussing the affair. She humiliated, and hurt him. Keep your private business private is powerful.

[@rosamaceira2298]

Jada is a narcissist that enjoys pushing her control over Will to the limits….that interview was SO DIFFICULT to watch, it was DISTURBING. She emasculated him and embarrassed her children…Can you imagine what her kids must of felt when they watched that interview? How her son felt when his mother had an affair with his friend?! This Jada chick is a malignant narcissist and has ruined her husband & kids lives for her own validation…. What a piece of…. Still hoping Will can figure out his way out of any contact with this psycho and re-start his life, save his kids and ultimately, get some happiness in their lives

[@codevyper]

The sad part about all this is that no matter how many good files Will Smith has or will make, he will now forever be known as "that guy that lost his cool and slapped the presenter on the Oscars". That image, that incident will always float in the back of the minds of everyone the minute you see his face on screen. He doesn't deserve that, Chris didn't deserve what happened to him either. Everyone refers to Will Smith as "class". But how about the class Chris Rock showed by carrying on with the show, no suing Will Smith, or having him arrested. Waiting a full year to finally come out and unleash. That's far more patience than many of us would ever show. Kudos to Chris, shame on you WIll Smith, and I won't even touch on Jada other than to reiterate what you said Stephen... "Not every truth needs to be told".

[@nicolemjackson3118]

And honestly, I don't think Will WANTS to be remembered for that, but, it's his own fault...

[@RayManuel23]

No he won’t. Life goes on mamas. 😘 I’ve seen Snoop beat a murder case, I’ve seen men lose it all, and make a comeback. It’s just how life goes. Definitely a bad choice. He’s going to be ok trust me

[@dominiquejones3805]

Not every truth needs 2 b told

[@barackochieng9385]

I like what Chris Rock did, he knew exactly when not to act cause sometimes the best action is no action completely and he finally knew exactly when to act and how to act, much love Chris all the way from Africa (Kenya).

[@ramiromaia592]

I'm in tears just listening to this because you hit the nail on the head

[@josephredmond623]

It really hurt Chris Rock. Just remember Chris Rock had a show on TV for years explaining his hurt when he was a kid. I am not surprised Rock had his revenge. Wow

[@MsStaceyB]

Yeah “Everybody Hates Chris” I loved that show. Still watch the reruns.

[@chukwutheartist]

Plus in that show, Chris got beaten up and clowned all the time. I'm sure he reverted back to that bullied teenage boy from Brooklyn when Will slapped him.

[@MsStaceyB]

@@chukwutheartist I was thinking the same thing when the incident happened. He used comedy to deal with being bullied.

[@PhilPhil240]

I appreciate Chris Rock finally coming out and speaking on the situation. As sensitive as that was, he kept his composure and let it ride. Will Smith was out of hand, handle that off air not in front of millions of people

[@nerdsdelight]

Chris showed a lot of strength

[@LiquidV381]

Will has and had no remorse. To sit in his chair and arrogantly yell at Chris several times. Chris was right he is a beotchhh

[@TheOGgUeRiLlaMoDe]

Chris took his time, didn't play victim, he didn't do one thing wrong and now you got people calling him out

[@LiquidV381]

How you feel sorry for the agressor?? I never understood that.

[@TheOGgUeRiLlaMoDe]

@@LiquidV381 clearly will can't take a joke which is what it was hell all comedians make joke about people all the time.

[@LalloMama]

“Not every truth needs to be told.” 👏🏽👏🏽

[@martinanaya6145]

Thanks Steven A. Beyond the harm Will caused to Chris, to Will Packer, and to himself, there is the harm he caused to the Black community as a whole. AND other minorities. Now, as a Latino, this is not something I say lightly. I got numerous calls that night from my black and brown friends in the industry, directly after the slap saying "Will just screwed all of us". At 1st I dismissed it. But understand, I was aT the Oscars THAT NIGHT. And I heard, 1st hand, the primarily older, Jewish producers and Hollywood elites GO IN! "This is what you wanted, this is what you get". That was the statement of one Exec speaking about the browning of Hollywood. It's as if every stereotype about the nature of Blacks (AND OTHER MINORITIES) was confirmed. Believe me, this HAS DONE HARM.

[@onewoman4274]

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SPEAKING ON THIS! I work in the entertainment industry and had to listen to the same deal you did. It was insufferable to listen to White and Jewish power brokers try to justify limiting our opportunities in all aspects of executive producing. It was nauseating. WIll Smith didn't give a fan about the assault on Chris and of May of us that have worked hard to get opportunities in this industry or CREATE opportunities in this industry. I was disgusted a year ago and I am more disgusted now as he still attempts to justify his bad behaviour.

[@christinan5382]

Thank you for saying this!!! I said it in my head. He completely fed into the perpetuated stereotypes of black/Latino people. A beautiful produced show by Will Packer tarnished. They want this kind of crap from us so they can say they were right all along. It doesn’t matter how long Will Smith has been “good”. It just takes one time, one. And that’s your new label. Your perspective as someone in the entertainment industry is sooo appreciated!

[@paulachinn6306]

Racist don't care. If it never happened, they would still have the same attitude. Their heart is dirty.

[@AlphaMom55]

Thank you, hermano! I was raised in a very diverse community in Los Ángeles and have a diverse family. We stand with Chris Rock and you’re right, Smith screwed us. We already have to deal with being looked at like we’re fools and thugs and now he just gave them more boca con que hablar mal de nosotros. We’ve got to do better as minorities. We are strong, intelligent, talented, hard working people. We need to realize that everything we do is scrutinized by society. Especially immigrants like myself. Bendiciones, hermano. 💙🙏🏽

[@lorphe2oo7]

Chris Rock doing what he does Best!.. Loved the Netflix Clap back.

[@ejohnson502]

He said what he said! Looked like he had tears trying to forming. He did his thang and I’m glad he did.

[@carlsagan2607]

I think he really felt betrayed. It probably hurt to say those jokes but … oh well

[@TamarChante]

Excellent commentary here! So well put. Thank you. I totally agree with you. Chris Rock's special was awesome! I loved it. I always loved both Chris Rock & Will Smith, but I need time to move on from Will's transgression. Chris didn't deserve that slap. But, Rock used his talent to slap back. Good for him!

[@Wilbusr95]

We need more of this Stephen A. I gotta be honest, its very refreshing to hear you talk about something other than sports. Stephen A is very intelligent and knowledgeable l, that everyone outside the sports world needs to hear this man speak.

[@Debbiediamond0310]

Well it’s was in the sports category

[@RealLadi228]

I've never listened to him because I'm not a sports fan I thoroughly enjoyed him speaking about this subject. Staying tuned in for more.....

[@richardhenry7756]

Amen Preach

[@cw7735]

Totally agree! He won me over on this one, he actually do have a soul 😘🤗

[@YaYa-ke1zr]

I love how the comedy greats showed up to support Chris…I wished that more of them had showed up immediately after the incident but it is what it is. It’s also wonderful to see so many big hitters with millions of subscribers dedicating content to Chris’ Netflix show. That’s support too. As for Jada, we know that she is the root cause but the blame for the physical action must land squarely on Will’s shoulders. She didn’t force him to sit across from her at the red table. She didn’t force him to run up and slap Chris. For all we know, Will could be pissed at all of these men telling his wife what she should have and shouldn’t have done. It is his job to tell her how to treat him. It is his job to reinforce his boundaries. It. Is. His. Job. If he doesn’t take any action on it then he must like the way she treats him.

[@rodney8078]

Its die to chicken shit no one with class showed up to support Mr. Chris, but his respectable family brother. PLEASE DO NOT AIR ANYMORE OF THOSE SMITH PEOPLE SHOWS. PLAIN TRASHY ...EVEN HIS FILMS!

[@byronhenry7205]

The CR special was titled SELECTIVE OUTRAGE for a reason. At the end of the day, Will was wrong for how he handled his emotions in the situation. Chris responded with comedy AND emotion as well, and imo was just getting his hit back. But a lot of people are upset with him about “uncomfortable” jokes and situations he joked about; but AGAIN it’s SELECTIVE OUTRAGE and ultimately it was GENIUS because THATS what he’s invoking emotionally with EVERYONE discussing the special since it aired.

[@dominiquejones3805]

This was his best special n a long time. People will come back years later praising it

[@Ann-kg1zd]

It was genius for Chris to do nothing for a year while the Smiths thought it was dying down and blowing over and boom! He drudged it all back up again!

[@deidreskelton9900]

It was particularly horrendous because Will Smith knew Chris Rock's history of being beat up and picked on as a child so to go there and do that on international television in front of both their piers and family and friends was just unforgivable !

[@nanettematthews2264]

Will Smith suffered a similar fate by being humiliated as his father brutalized his mother. That's what Will Smiths book talks about. This is what was so surprising to me about what Will did to Rock...he knows first hand what it feels like to be bullied. smh

[@dominiquejones3805]

What's sad is they were friends 4 decades

[@RobertLee-k8g]

If a person has a history of getting beat up then you don’t talk about people love ones that is a fact and how every way you slice it that’s the fact

[@Onlytheclouds]

Just finished watching the special on Netflix. So many hilarious moments. Forgot how good Chris Rock stand up shows were.

[@Communitylight2657]

Finally, someone who speaks the truth about the consequences of that terrible night. I applaud you Steve because that should have been a night for Black Americans to be proud of, but instead, was tainted by what Will Smith did. The Oscars will forever be reminded by this. Good job Steve 👏 👏👏👏👏👏💯💯 I hope Jada watches and hears this because you were the spark that lit this fire.

[@angelascarborough6505]

So true!! Jada lit that fire at first you could see her laugh. Then she gives Will a look of disaproval like do something Will.

[@danathomas3479]

Jada was not only the spark but the gasoline as well.

[@belt9162]

At the end of Chris Rock special you can feel his heartfelt pain, anger and I guess disappointed because as Chris said he loves Will. I love and understand Chris may this helps him to heal and move on ... ♥

[@bellymus1]

I feel like CR gave me some closure with that special; glad he used his gift for a response. Also to show the world what it's like to not play victim.

[@BlackLung0110]

Agreed 💯✔️

[@katlap3101]

Agreed,

[@selasun4]

You are so right!!! Your take on the whole saga, is the best l have heard. I'd never watched your channel before, but today l became a new subscriber. I'm glad Chris did what he needed to do, to right the wrong. That was therapy for Chris, raw and unfiltered. I have nothing but respect for him ❤

[@milagroscintron3040]

I agree 100% with what you're saying. Kudos to Chris Rock! And the Smith family should keep their mouths shut and stop playing the victims. I admire and respect how Chris Rock handled the situation that night. He was definitely the bigger man. It is something I will never forget; it was very upsetting. Since then I refuse to see any of the Will Smith movies.

[@okay5045]

Chris was emotional, personal and very funny. Bravo Chris you did that thing brother.

[@hildamasvikwa8570]

What Jada did to Will was a form of narcissistic abuse!!!

[@tanyawashington6996]

Yes and he should have divorced her.

[@jeanney21]

Every single word that Chris said, Will and Jada deserve it. 🎤🎤🎤

[@17arando]

Chris Rock handled everything from the actual moment to the eventual response completely perfectly. I always loved him, I didn't even know I had a higher level of respect available to give him, but he still jumped up a whole another level with that special

[@AA-qt1hi]

About Jada "not being part of it", one thing I recall looking for that night was ANY sign that Jada was trying to console and de-escalate Will's feelings as his wife, his partner. I never observed on cam that she was trying to lean over to hold his hand, pat his knee to calm him down of whatever adrenaline he was riding that he kept raising a raucous after he went up there to smack Chris. I don't recall any other perspective of the people there that reflected she was trying to do it. Densel W. and others did a better job of trying to calm Will down. Not Jada. THAT more than "the look" communicated to me what part she was playing in being part of the problem. Like a girlfriend urging her boyfriend to fight on her behalf regardless of whatever potential trouble he can land himself as a result, her lack of inaction spoke spades. Chris coming for them both was truly warranted. Both of them bishes in their own right. A manipulative narcissist and the puppet that chooses to stay with her for reasons unknown. Now that Chris got that off his chest to the world, HE can only now start to move forward really as is his right.

[@tytjames]

Well said 👏🏽 "Like a spark to a fire 🔥!"

[@tanyataylor5310]

And she deflected and got away with it by and large. 🤦🏽‍♀️🥴

[@donnareneedd]

Thank you, Stephen A. Smith, you were on Point 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽💙

[@angeladelarosa7074]

I felt so bad for Chris U can see his face afterwards he was embarrassed and his poor momma when she found out said Will slapped me too Omg I was so hurt. She said Will didn’t just slapped my son but he also slapped me wow

[@ruthh.9069]

what Chris mama said, was heartbreaking 🥺

[@AlphaMom55]

Yes!! As a mother, I felt that slap. It hurt his mama more than it hurt him, physically and emotionally.

[@maggiejacoby5354]

New found respect for you , Mr Stephen A Smith .You saw exactly what I saw on that Netflix CR special. You were honest in your commentary, polite and a joy to listen to . Thank you for speaking on it !

[@sharon1334]

Let's MOVE ON.

[@kirstenwatkins4707]

Or

[@angelascarborough6505]

Definetly the best commentary on this issue that I have seen yet!!

[@bridge211debose]

This episode was so deep and got me emotional. What a fabulous show Mr. Smith. Definitely going to watch it again.

[@efistofelico3270]

We are with you Chris Rock!

[@lisal.4498]

Chris Rock does NOT want to be called a victim - he is a class act so don’t call him a victim

[@JTScott1988]

There’s nothing wrong with saying I was victimized. He IS a victim even if he wants to pretend he wasn’t victimized while at the same time saying he was. Lolz

[@pamelajackson7210]

Like so many people last year when Chris was slapped by Will in the midst of millions of people viewing The Oscars worldwide was shocking 😮and I felt hurt for Chris, but then I was proud of him for being gracious and strong in one the most degrading moment in his life! An old saying came to mind, “To err is human, but to forgive is divine”🖐🏽I pray that both of these talented and gifted men can truly be at peace and unity🙏🏽

[@Patrice4Real28]

I’m so happy Chris Rock got this off his heart and his head. It was therapeutic for him. You could see it in his eyes. I believe he will now have peace.

[@SunnyIlha]

Agree to that. He got it out. He needed to rest it and get closure.

[@marilynjohnson8252]

I am a therapist and your observations and corresponding comments are absolutely correct!

[@judysturkiewashington8379]

Best mic drop moment EVER. C Rock delivered best response up from there..Them people over there can’t recover from that egregious behavior

[@melissanelson9924]

Stephen A. Always on point!!!

[@anna-mariepellett4362]

🦋⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ episode. Thank you for caring enough to take the time to put the show together I think there’s many of us who needed this. Much love and blessings be upon you.

[@joannebrennan7144]

Thank you for this spot on, brilliant analysis of the Will Smith/Chris Rock situation..I was so upset & angry at Will for assaulting Chris, a comedian, over a joke, on live TV In front of millions...Will walked away with a smugged, confident, look on his face after slapping Chris & then immediately apologized to the AUDIENCE with no mention of Chris that night..Will only apologized to Chris the next day after his PR folks advised him too do so! Bravo to Chris for handling himself like a real man that night..Unfortunately Will doesn't recognize he's in a toxic relationship with Jada who will eventually destroy everything he's worked so hard too achieve!! I'm no longer a fan of Will's & have gained even more respect for Chris Rock!!!!

[@onewoman4274]

I AGREE WITH EVERY WORD YOU SAID! Every word. Gail King interviewed Him Carey the next day and he said he would have had Will arrested and sued him forv200 million dollars and he meant it! But we all know Will would have slapped May Leno or Jimmy Kimmel and he wouldn't have slapped Him Carry either. Will was asked to leave the Oscars and he REFUSED because he didn't want to miss his moment but he ruined everybody else's. Actress Regina Hall was one of the co-host that night. When she made the joke about the Smiths having an "open marriage" both Jada and Will cracked up laughing. Jada is a narcissists and why I don't don't know. She is marginally talented and mean-spirited. Chris is a brilliant businessman with self control. He picked the time and the place and gave Will and Jada the smoke. In the end, he got the last word and dropped the mic.

[@aatiti2011]

💯💯💯

[@MrParker-ux2mh]

The grammatical errors throughout this thread are so cringy 😂😂

[@rhodarobertson9835]

How many narcissistic people do you have in LA. Do they have their own club. I know of AH, JPS, WS, MM JH. They must be members.?

[@ekell7472]

I hope the Oscars let’s Chris Rock present the Best Picture/Actor award or which ever is the highest

[@riffgroove]

Will deserved every single word of that.

[@TA-ht4jo]

And Jada

[@tyrone05]

2 men having a disagreement on stage dies not set black people back. It set will back. I got a 10 percent raise last year as a black man.

[@rickhardman7235]

This is the best review of the Netflix special I've seen. Comprehensive, thorough, and well thought out. Thank you.

[@katlap3101]

And another thing, Chris’s kids will forever have to see this and so will Chris, it is unforgivable

[@kerrye3901]

Great show! Thank you! You’ve earned a new fan 😊

[@teddygraham5230]

Jada should’ve also been the one apologizing to Chris. Not just Will

[@jamesfitzgerald8223]

Stephen A my man you are all over it. The emasculation of Will Smith led to the humiliation of Chris Rock! Well said man and keep doing your thing

[@dr.ivypearl]

This is the very best analysis of this unfortunate occurrence that I have heard!! Thank you so much for keeping it very real, objective and balanced. We seldom think of the collateral damage done by Mr. Smith’s egregious deed.

[@rodney8078]

That's not true,in no sense of the words.

[@rodney8078]

balanced-- what hill you coming down from?

[@deniselloyd9317]

Chris was absolutely brilliant 👏👏👏

[@austindockery1346]

Chris Rock told no lies and Stephen A told no lies, that’s for speaking up!

[@nross4109]

The night of the slap, Tiffany Haddish was all in on supporting Will Smith saying he was “defending his woman” and praising his actions. Wonder if she still feels that way if she sees Chris’ show.

[@nerdsdelight]

Chris was a victim. He handled everything with class. He could’ve went further on his special. Will hit Chris because he knew he could get away with it.

[@tracy3183]

He Definitely could have said So Much More. Like say that Jalen's Friend was living in the House during the time they were having the Affair. That to me, takes the Affair to the Whole Another Level.

[@nifty2bthrifty366]

Exactly, Chris came out with kid gloves and pretty much said what everyone had already said on social media. If he wanted to destroy Will and Jafa he could've and had the audience to do so. They should be thankful.

[@sandrakelley3391]

I feel the same way you do about not watching anything Will has done since. Makes me sick. Stephen you have got it all right ❤❤❤❤❤

[@timothysmith7038]

Don't!!!

[@maryk3458]

My dad always said to me once you raise your hands on someone, you have already lost the fight.

[@samik5755]

Such massive respect to Stephen calling out WS for what he did and support Chris Rock ❤

[@CYR888]

I love Chris Rock. Wish I knew him personally. I don't think I could ever watch another Will Smith movie again.

[@salvadoramaya8642]

Chris Rock understood that a retaliation on international television would have created a bad look in black people. So many black people have worked so hard for black people to get ahead. He wasn't about to throw it all away by giving in to his anger at being slapped. And not suing and having him arrested and letting Will Smith have his moment still despite what he did to him, says so much about his character as a person. Just wow.

[@teremoanatuau8837]

Thank you, Stephen. I had no idea about that, Will Packer being the first black man to produce the Oscar's. It was tarnished by Will Smith's despicable behavior. Chris Rock's performance was justified and phenomenal. Enjoyed your commentary.

[@Divisiononebasketball]

I was a huge Will Smith fan. I literally cancelled him like I cancelled R Kelley, Cosby, Harvey Weinstein etc…

[@p8onl444]

He called her the Bword out of respect for Will saying "keep my wife's name out your efn mouth" He honored his request

[@eemgTV]

This was Brilliant. 45 MINUTES OF TRUTH.

[@pennypendleton7345]

I totally agree 100%. Chris was the better man

[@thisjustin212]

You can't talk Black excellence and be cool with a grown man slapping another in public on national TV. As a community, we look dumb.

[@STW0173]

You can't talk about Black excellence and come out during the "Blackest Oscars ever" and use your platform to demean and belittle another Black woman and THE Black woman of Hollywood royalty, a wife to the man who is the epitome of Black excellence. You're right, Chris Rock made the Black community look dumb. Not classy at all. I'm glad Will Smith smacked him down to Earth. Who the hell does he think he is? Chris Rock is fathoms beneath Will Smith and the Smith family.

[@thisjustin212]

@@STW0173 oh you mean a comedian being a comedian by telling a joke? How strange is that? A joke about GI Jane demeaning? Just slap people everytime you're offended. Hope they come across the wrong one.

[@sheldonhollis5258]

That's why I claim "mixed" now

[@StayTunedReviews]

Can you talk about Black excellence with a grown man calling another grown man and his wife a b*tch?

[@thisjustin212]

@@StayTunedReviews he got slapped. He didn't sue him or get him arrested. He got paid off of it. Imagine watching and personally getting offended still.

[@Saintsfanalways]

People don't realize that point you made about chris rock suing Will Smith. Dude could have took him through the cleaners, got him arrested, and padded his bank acount with will smiths money. Chris Rock is a real one for letting it slide like that. Will Smith should be thanking his lucky stars Chris Rock let him off. I think Chris Rock respects Will enough to not do that, and like so many said realize this is out of the norm for Will, but at the same time he knew, we all knew Chris was gonna go in on him in this special. He'll let you off on the physical stuff like putting you in jail, or taking your money, but no way in hell was he gonna let him off from going in on him in his next special. Chris Rock handled this whole situation with class.

[@SharronDenice]

Yeah I've never seen Chris Rock mess up a joke, it was super personal for him because he said he respected the guy.

[@oliviamerlos626]

I know I was sad for him when he messed it up but it showed that it was personal

[@SunnyIlha]

He really messed up there. It was the wrong trigger that was rarity for him. Even the audience was like... "Whoa, whoa, ...wait a minute...was that funny?...nah,no, that *wasn't* *funny* ..." You could *feel* the tension in the audience.

[@excitingworld364]

Thank you for you being so honest and so direct, not holding back in your due indignation. This is utterly needed, I was missing this kind of reaction.

[@NancyGooGoo]

THIS is one hell of a phenomenal video! Thank you for making it! You hit on every truth to the Will Smith/Chris Rock matter in such a way and in so many words that it was as if you climbed into my head and just spoke the words out loud! EVERY SYLLABLE WAS TRUTH!! Thanks again - and I'm not even a sports nut! LOL!

[@fridakahlo4225]

It is insane how things went wrong the most terrible way imaginable. All Will had to do was a sincere apology. All people expected from him to say "I was confused and f up. I am sorry". And people would forgive him IMMEDIATELY. We all knew what he had been through, we felt sorry for him. But instead of that, we had a cry. Then a staged poor excuse of an apology which angered people even more.

[@pennynocry9174]

dagggg. ..true...any sign of sincere.... he would have been forgiven in a heart beat...

[@paulchristian7693]

Chris Rock is a comic genius.

[@jmdika]

So so true, would have been easily forgiven for slapping Chris, if he had apologized sincerely immediately

[@LovedByYou]

they wouldn't have accepted it anyway

[@preciouspearl487]

He needs to learn anger management and not commit the act in the 1st place..

[@Lynnleemattos]

I feel the same way bout Will & Jada, can’t look at anything they do after that slap incident 🙄🤦🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️

[@onewoman4274]

I was not a big fan of hers to begin with, but this put me off of both of them. Keep your business to yourself and there won't be none.

[@bardarians]

@@onewoman4274 yr forgetting Chris rock dissed Jada about boycotting the oscars due to lack of black people. now 99% blacks are redicurling her over a statement Will Smith warned Chris not to speak about his wife. y'all gone mad?