The first thing that comes to mind when you think of the 2022 Oscars, held on March 27, is probably not the gorgeous gowns or the numerous award winners. The first thing that comes to mind is probably Chris Rock getting slapped across the face by Will Smith.   

The unfortunate series of events started when Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith — Will Smith’s spouse. He commented that he would see her in “GI Jane 2.” The joke was both crude and insensitive because the actress and singer suffers from alopecia, a medical condition that causes hair loss. Will Smith then charged on stage and slapped Rock. He also told Rock to, “Keep my wife’s name out of your f****** mouth.” Some have speculated that the incident was staged, although no one knows for sure. 

“Chris Rock got rocked,” senior Megan Hillyer said.

Despite the incident, the rest of the Academy Awards was a success. There were many memorable moments that should not be overshadowed by the unfortunate slap.  

“I think that my favorite part of the night was when they did a memorial for Betty White,” Hillyer said. “I love the show ‘Golden Girls.’”

“I think Beyoncé’s performance was so elegant,” senior Nate Calefati said. “I loved everything about it.”

And we cannot forget the fabulous fashion of the evening. Some of the best looks on the red carpet were brought to you by Zoë Kravitz, Megan Thee Stallion, Zendaya, Cloe Bailey, Demi Singleton, Laverne Cox, Mila Kunis and Ariana DeBose.  

“I think that Timothée Chalamet had the best outfit of the night,” Calefati said. “I loved his blazer.”

The most notable Oscar winners include “CODA” for Best Picture, Will Smith for Best Actor, Jessica Chastain for Best Actress, Billie Eilish for Best Original Song, “Encanto” for Best Animated Feature, Ariana DeBose for Best Supporting Actress, “Dune” for multiple categories, “Cruella” for Best Costume Design and so many more.  

“Will Smith won his first Oscar and he deserved it,” Calefati said. “I really liked his speech and you can tell he was really grateful.”  

It is safe to say that the 94th Academy Awards were anything but boring. Look forward to the Will Smith and Chris Rock memes that are sure to flood the internet soon.