Steve Harvey Calls Will Smith's Slap A "Punk Move": "I Lost A Lot Of Respect For Him"

He also said that if Smith had done the same to him and sat in his seat, "Jada would have to move out of the way."

BYErika Marie
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It has been two months since Will Smith and Chris Rock's slapping incident at the Oscars took over pop culture, and comedians are still letting Smith have it. Immediately following the infamous Academy Awards moment, comedians came forward to express their disgust with Smith's behavior, and while much of that conversation has dissipated within the last two months, Steve Harvey is reviving the topic.

According to reports, Harvey recently spoke at Georgia State University where he addressed several issues including Smith and Rock's altercation. Harvey touched on being a religious man but struggled with whether or not he would have been as passive as Rock.

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“I’m a Christian, but I’m really undeveloped. I don’t have high-level Christianity," said Harvey. "On a scale of one to 10, I’m like a two. That’s the level of Christianity I can work on. You slap T.D. Jakes, he’ll turn the other cheek. You slap me? If you sit back in your seat, Jada would have to move out of the way. That’s the type of Christian I am.”

Smith's reputation has taken a hit since the incident and there have been several reports of delayed or canceled projects involving the actor. Harvey also told the GSU audience that Smith only executed his slap because it was Rock on the stage. He also reportedly said that Smith pulled a "punk move" before saying that he "lost a lot of respect" for the Oscar-winning actor.


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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.