Chris Rock has stated that he would only return to the Academy Awards if he receives an acting nomination, addressing the fallout from the infamous 2022 onstage slap by Will Smith.
Speaking in an interview with variety.com, Rock confirmed that a future attendance depends entirely on professional recognition rather than an invitation to spectate or host.
He noted that his chances of receiving a nomination are slim, adding that he is comfortable managing expectations around the event.
The incident occurred at the 94th Academy Awards when Smith struck Rock on stage after the comedian made a joke about Jada Pinkett-Smith’s shaved head, a result of her alopecia diagnosis. Smith subsequently received a 10-year ban from all Academy events and later called his actions a poison. Reflecting on the physical altercation years later, Rock downplayed its ongoing significance compared to broader global issues and his upcoming professional projects.
Addressing whether he would ever consider hosting the ceremony again, Rock dismissed the idea by expressing respect for current hosts such as Conan O’Brien and noting that his own time in that role has likely passed.
The interview coincides with Rock promoting his latest directorial project, the A24 film “Misty Green,” which stars Rosalind Eleazar and is slated to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) .