Comedy Club Owners Afraid Patrons Will Start Slapping Stand-Up Comedians After Will Smith Incident

The video of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock is still going viral. In response to what happened at the Oscars, many fans and celebrities have spoken out. Recently, comedy club owners stated that they hope hitting people over jokes they don’t like does not get “normalized.”

After Will Smith assaulted Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022, New York comedy club owners are concerned for their acts, stating that violent behavior “sets a dangerous precedent.”

“Chris was hit for a joke, that’s never OK,” Comedy Cellar owner Noam Dworman tells Page Six. He said that he hopes that this does not lead to similar incidents in other comedy clubs.

“There is no limiting principle to it and it must not be normalized. We support Chris completely … I think even Will Smith would agree, and probably regrets what happened.”

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“Let’s all hope it doesn’t become a ‘thing.’ Gentlemen used to challenge each other to duels, so humans are clearly vulnerable to these sorts of things.”

Dani Zoldan, the owner of Stand Up NY, also voiced her opinion. Caroline Hirsch, owner of Carolines on Broadway, is also concerned that people will follow Smith’s lead and attack comedians if they don’t agree with what they have to say.

“I’ve been in touch with a handful of comics and every one of them thinks it’s insane what happened (like the rest of the world!). They have been concerned about cancel culture, but this is next level crazy where they are now concerned about their safety.”

“Comics are here to entertain us and make us laugh — full stop. To retaliate physically against a comedian for telling jokes is totally uncalled for and I hope the Academy sends a strong message in support for Chris Rock.”

“Comedians should be able to feel comfortable in being able to perform without the fear of being attacked on stage.”

“That was a violent assault committed by a role model on live television in front of an international audience. He should issue a public apology to Chris, and he needs to be held accountable because this sets a very dangerous precedent.”

“I hope this incident doesn’t inspire people to believe that it’s acceptable behavior to resort to violence when a comedian tells a joke that offends them. If you’re offended by the material, don’t laugh.”

The Academy said in a statement on Monday that it “condemns Mr. Smith’s actions at last night’s show,” and that an official investigation has been launched. “We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law,” the organization wrote in a statement shared via social media on Monday.

Smith is likely to face disciplinary action, which could include the suspension of his Academy membership. According to reports, Smith’s best actor award for “King Richard,” which he received on Sunday, is less likely to be revoked.

Now stand-up comedians might have to learn how to fight, because most situations will not end like it did at the Oscars with a simple slap and walk away. Most people will tighten up and throw down in front of a shocked crowd. Talk about killing the mood. To get the latest updates, keep an eye on Thirsty.

What’s your opinion on this one? Let us know in the comments!