In a recently surfaced video, actor Will Smith is seen slapping a reporter who tried to kiss him on the red carpet during the Moscow premiere of Men In Black 3 in 2012.
The reporter in question was identified as Ukrainian prankster Vitalii Sediuk, who embraced Smith and planted kisses on both his cheeks before receiving a swift slap from the actor.
Reacting to the unexpected advance, the 53-year-old Smith pushed Sediuk away and then delivered a sharp slap to his cheek, while questioning, ‘What the heck is your problem?'
Smith further confronted Sediuk, asking, ‘Hey man, what the heck is your problem?'
as he addressed the incident with the press.
Following the incident, Smith discussed the encounter with the next reporter he approached, expressing his disbelief at Sediuk's actions.
He mentioned, ‘He tried to kiss me on the mouth.
He's lucky I didn't try to sucker punch him…
Sorry, I said that on camera.'
The actor highlighted the discomfort of the situation during an interview, labeling it as ‘awkward.'
Reflecting on the incident later during an appearance on The Late Show With David Letterman, Smith recounted the moment when Sediuk attempted to kiss him.
He explained, ‘We're doing an interview.
He's a reporter, he says, “I'm your biggest fan, can I have a hug?”
So I go to give this joker a hug and he tries to lean in to kiss me… it's just awkward Dave!'
Smith continued, sharing that he was aware of Sediuk's reputation for such pranks and responded accordingly.
Sediuk, known for pulling stunts on various celebrities, including Kim Kardashian and Madonna, issued an apology for his actions towards Smith.
He acknowledged that his behavior was excessive, stating, ‘I apologize for my behavior…
I think it was too much.
I just wanted to do something extraordinary to impress him,' in a video posted on Hip Hollywood.
Offering guidance to the child named Chris, Smith showcased the technique and shared a light-hearted moment with him.
However, controversy arose when Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage at the Academy Awards after a joke was made about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
Following the incident, Smith expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging that his behavior was unacceptable and inexcusable.
He emphasized the importance of non-violence and extended apologies to those affected by his outburst at the event.
In a statement released after the incident, Smith admitted to feeling embarrassed by his behavior and reiterated his commitment to embodying a better version of himself.
He expressed remorse for resorting to violence and pledged to uphold values of love and kindness in his interactions moving forward.
Throughout the unfolding events, Smith's reactions served as a reflection of his deep emotions and his journey towards reconciliation and growth.
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