Chris Rock Made His First Public Appearance Since Oscars Slap

Following years of declining viewing figures, the Academy was desperate for more people to watch the 2022 Oscars.

They tried all kinds of ways to boost ratings - big stars, live performances, charismatic hosts, a new category and cutting the craft prizes down to edited highlights.

But in the event, a comedian telling a joke and a Hollywood A-listers furious over-reaction to it would ultimately be what seized the world's attention.

The Academy wanted eyeballs. It has got them now. 

Prior to Sunday's ceremony, it was widely expected that Will Smith would win his first-ever Oscar, for his performance as the determined father of Venus and Serena Williams in King Richard. What wasn't expected, however, was that he would go down in Oscars history for an entirely different reason.

Best actor winner Will Smith took offence at a joke by presenter Chris Rock and slapped him.

Will Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused. 

The governors of the Academy said they have begun disciplinary procedures against the actor. They claim that Will Smith violated rules against 'inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, compromising the integrity of the Academy'.

Will Smith could be suspended or expelled from the Academy when they next meet on April 18.

The on-stage altercation travelled around the world in seconds. Smith's short temper would come to define the entire 2022 ceremony.