Chris Rock Returns to SNL as Host Following Oscar Incident

Comedian and actor Chris Rock, 59, is set to host Saturday Night Live (SNL) on December 14, 2024, marking his first appearance on the show since the infamous Oscar incident in 2022, where he was slapped by Will Smith. Rock was a cast member on SNL from 1990 to 1993. While it remains uncertain if the incident will be parodied, it is expected to be referenced in some form during the show. A source close to Rock shared that he is doing well and is focused on his comedy career, writing extensively.

The altercation occurred during the 94th Academy Awards in March 2022, when Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head, referencing the film G.I. Jane. Will Smith reacted by slapping Rock and shouting obscenities at him. Following the incident, Smith publicly apologized, acknowledging that his reaction was excessive and that he regretted tarnishing the event for everyone involved. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences later stated that it does not tolerate any form of violence and suspended Smith from membership for ten years, prohibiting him from attending the Oscars during that time. The incident was also addressed in Rock's Netflix special, Chris Rock: Selective Outrage.