From the Oscars Slap to the Emmys: Will Smith’s Controversial Journey and the Surprising Joke That Followed
Few names have stirred as much media buzz in recent years as Will Smith, though for reasons both remarkable and controversial. From his Academy Award-winning role in King Richard to the now-infamous Will Smith Oscars slap of Chris Rock in 2022, Smith’s name has become synonymous with both achievement and controversy. However, during the Emmy Awards 2024, an unexpected figure emerged to take a lighthearted jab at the actor’s turbulent past—none other than Will Smith, the British writer and creator of Apple TV’s hit series Slow Horses.
In this blog, we dive into Will Smith’s complex journey, the Emmy joke that reignited conversations about his public image, and how Slow Horses has become one of the most talked-about shows on streaming television today. Along the way, we’ll also touch on the talented Gary Oldman, who has become a key part of the show’s success.
Will Smith’s Oscars Controversy: How It Continues to Shape His Image
When the Will Smith Oscars slap took place during the Academy Awards 2022, it shocked the world. The incident, in which Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage, stemmed from a joke Rock made about Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair, drawing attention to her alopecia. The moment quickly overshadowed what should have been a crowning achievement: Smith’s Best Actor win for King Richard.
In the aftermath, Smith faced widespread criticism and public debate. His actions led to a 10-year ban from the Oscars, which only added to the fallout of the controversial event. As the world moved on, or at least tried to, the phrase “Will Smith Oscars slap” became ingrained in popular culture.
The Lasting Effects of the Slap
While Smith apologized to Rock and the public, the incident left an indelible mark on his career. Will Smith actor controversy became a recurring theme in headlines, as people began questioning whether his actions would permanently damage his reputation. As a result, every public appearance since has carried the weight of that fateful night.
It wasn’t long before other celebrities started referencing the event. The latest to do so was British writer Will Smith, who used the opportunity during his Emmy speech to make light of their shared name.
A Tale of Two Will Smiths: The Emmy Joke Heard Around the World
At the Emmy Awards 2024, Slow Horses writer Will Smith won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series. When he took the stage, Smith cleverly opened his speech with a nod to his Hollywood counterpart: “Relax, despite my name, I come in peace.” The room erupted in laughter, a clear acknowledgment of the tension that had lingered since the Oscars incident.
This Emmy moment provided a surprising twist, allowing the British Will Smith Slow Horses writer to both break the ice and acknowledge the shadow cast by the actor’s actions. The joke also reignited public interest in the incident, with fans and media outlets alike once again discussing the infamous Will Smith Oscars slap and the subsequent Will Smith actor controversy.
Slow Horses: The Unlikely Emmy-Winning Spy Thriller
While the Emmy joke was a hit, the real story behind the British Will Smith’s win is his incredible work on the Slow Horses series, which has quickly gained a reputation as one of Apple TV’s finest productions. Adapted from Mick Herron’s Slough House novels, the show combines the best of espionage drama with dark humor, creating a unique viewing experience.
The Story Behind Slow Horses Apple TV
Set in a gritty, realistic world of British intelligence, Slow Horses revolves around a group of MI5 spies who have been relegated to desk jobs due to their failures. Led by the abrasive and unorthodox Jackson Lamb (played by Gary Oldman Slow Horses), the team navigates both internal MI5 politics and dangerous missions that often put their careers—and lives—at risk.
The show’s blend of character-driven drama, humor, and suspenseful storytelling earned it critical acclaim and a slew of Slow Horses Emmy nominations. Alongside Gary Oldman Emmy nomination for Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series, Slow Horses received nine nominations in total, including Best Writing for Will Smith Slow Horses writer, casting, and music composition.
Gary Oldman: The Heart and Soul of Slow Horses
At the center of Slow Horses’ success is the brilliant performance of Gary Oldman, whose portrayal of Jackson Lamb is both complex and darkly funny. Known for his versatility and intensity, Oldman has brought a new level of depth to his character, which has garnered him praise from critics and fans alike.
Gary Oldman’s Emmy Journey
Oldman’s performance in Slow Horses has not gone unnoticed. His ability to embody the worn-down, cynical, yet ultimately brilliant Lamb has made him a frontrunner in the Gary Oldman Emmy nomination category. In fact, Oldman has helped the show stand out in an already crowded field of spy dramas.
By showcasing his character’s growth over multiple seasons, Oldman has proven why he remains one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood. His nomination further solidifies his place as an actor capable of elevating any role he takes on.
A British Will Smith Making His Mark: The Writer Behind Slow Horses
While the Oscars incident remains an unavoidable part of any conversation involving the name “Will Smith,” the Will Smith Slow Horses writer is building a reputation for his own brilliance in the TV world. Known for his work on shows like Veep and The Thick of It, the British Will Smith British writer has carved out a name for himself, especially after winning the Emmy for Slow Horses.
His Creative Process and Vision
One of the driving forces behind the success of Slow Horses is Smith’s ability to adapt the intricate, character-driven novels into engaging television. His writing captures the tension and humor of the original material while infusing new life into the storylines. It’s no wonder that Slow Horses Apple TV has been recognized for its outstanding writing, directing, and acting.
The Emmy Awards 2024: A Turning Point for Slow Horses
The Emmy Awards 2024 marked a turning point for both the Slow Horses team and the British Will Smith. With multiple nominations and wins, the series has officially stepped into the spotlight. Its success at the Emmys is a testament to the strength of its storytelling, performances, and writing.
While the joke about the Will Smith Oscars slap added levity to the night, the true highlight was seeing how far Slow Horses has come since its debut. As the show continues to gain recognition, there’s no doubt that we’ll be seeing even more Slow Horses Emmy nominations in the future.
Will Smith’s Journey and the Future of Slow Horses
From the Will Smith Oscars slap to the British writer’s Emmy win, the name Will Smith has become a fixture in both Hollywood and the UK television industry. As Slow Horses continues to climb the ranks of critically acclaimed series, both Will Smiths—actor and writer—remain part of the cultural conversation, albeit for very different reasons.
With Gary Oldman Slow Horses earning accolades for his stellar performance and the show’s writing taking center stage, Slow Horses has officially earned its place as one of Apple TV’s best offerings. The next question is, will the show continue its Emmy-winning streak in the years to come?
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