Will Smith is reportedly seeking advice from Johnny Depp on how to restore his reputation following the incident at the 2022 Academy Awards, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock. Sources close to Smith claim that the actor, who is 55, has been impressed by Depp’s recovery from allegations of abuse against his former wife, Amber Heard. Depp, aged 61, has managed to rehabilitate his image despite the controversy surrounding him.
Recently, Smith and Depp were seen together on a yacht off the coast of Italy. The National Enquirer reports that Smith is inspired by Depp’s comeback and wants guidance on how to regain his former standing. Despite the success of his recent film “Bad Boys 4,” Smith is concerned about his future in Hollywood and has even explored opportunities in Bollywood as a backup plan.
Depp, meanwhile, is thriving with multiple projects, including his recent role in the French romantic comedy Jeanne du Barry. Smith is reportedly eager to learn Depp’s strategies for overcoming a tarnished reputation and achieving success again.
As Smith awaits the release of “Bad Boys 4,” he hopes that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences might reconsider his 10-year ban imposed following the slap incident. Supporters of Smith argue that his recent box office successes, similar to how Tom Cruise’s films overshadowed past controversies, might help his cause. They point out that Smith’s ability to attract audiences could influence the Academy’s decision.
The slap occurred on March 27, 2022, when Smith, upset by a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s alopecia, stormed the stage and struck Chris Rock. Despite winning the Academy Award for Best Actor that night for his role in King Richard, the incident overshadowed his achievement.
Smith apologized and resigned from the Academy on April 1, 2022, accepting any repercussions. The Academy announced on April 8, 2022, that he would be barred from attending its events for ten years. A significant step toward mending his reputation would involve a public reconciliation with Rock, a key figure within the Academy, which could potentially influence a review of Smith’s ban.
