J Balvin feels “really connected” to Will Smith.
The music star is a longtime fan of the Hollywood actor, and Balvin revealed that he can empathize with Smith over his 2022 Oscars controversy when he struck comedian Chris Rock during the ceremony.
“Will Smith has always been one of my biggest idols. Period. I feel really connected with him,” the singer told Rolling Stone.
Smith hit Rock after the comedy star made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Despite this, Balvin has urged the public not to judge Smith too harshly on the basis of one mistake.
“You cannot judge a person for some mistakes.” he said.
Smith resigned from the Academy following the controversial incident; Balvin has insisted that a “mistake cannot define who you are.”
“I felt his pain because I was going through a similar situation when I felt that some part of the world was against me for [my] mistakes,” he added.
Smith previously described his behavior at the Oscars as “shocking, painful and inexcusable.”
“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful and inexcusable. The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy,” he said.
“I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken,” the movie star said.
“I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film,” he added.
