Ever since Will Smith and Chris Rock’s slapgate incident happened during the 2022 Oscars ceremony, the Academy Award winner has been subject to a Hollywood boycott. Repeatedly slammed by the entertainment industry for his controversial act during the auspicious event, Smith seemingly ruined his hard-earned reputation in the industry.
Following the incident, Will Smith has separated himself from the spotlight and confined himself to podcasts and talk shows. Leaving behind the glitz and glam after being boycotted by Hollywood, Smith is currently visiting Saudi Arabia and enjoying his time.
Hollywood Boycotted Will Smith After Oscar Slap
Turning the 2022 Oscars into one of the most notorious events in the history of the Academy Awards, Will Smith slapping Chris Rock got etched as one of the most infamous and controversial moments. The world couldn’t stop talking about how Smith walked onstage to strike the comedian for making a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith‘s alopecia.
Following the notorious slap, it took days for people to figure out if it was staged or spontaneous. After reputed sources like USA Today confirmed that the slap was indeed real, a lot happened in Hollywood. Will Smith was seen apologizing twice, and yet getting banned from the Academy Awards for 10 years. Further, Chris Rock was seen addressing the incident in-depth during a live comedy special.
However, amid such controversies and dramatic moments, Hollywood swiftly began sidelining Will Smith. Gradually boycotting the actor, the entertainment industry began taking away opportunities from Smith. Through decades, all the reputation and fame that the actor had earned, got washed away in no time, following his Oscar slap. Thereafter, even Smith started pulling himself out of Hollywood.
Will Smith Feels At Home in Saudi Arabia
Confining himself to mere podcasts and talk shows, Will Smith started accepting Hollywood’s boycott. Keeping to himself and supporting his family, the actor recently made headlines for visiting Saudi Arabia. Gaining the spotlight, after his conversation reported by Al Arabiya via The Business Standard.
Waking up his inner Aladdin, Will Smith told the outlet how welcomed he feels in Saudi Arabia. After getting shut out of Hollywood, which was previously his home for decades, Smith admitted finding himself all over again, during his visit to the Middle Eastern country. Speaking profoundly of his experience in Saudi Arabia, Smith opened up about his affinity for the country.
“I think I was a Genie in a past life. I am so at home; I love it here.”
Adding a bit of humor to his conversation with the outlet, the actor recalled the time when he portrayed the role of Genie in the live-action movie Aladdin. Absolutely enchanted by the people, their customs, and traditions, Will Smith appears to be at peace in Saudi Arabia.
