Comedian Chris Rock, who was smacked by Oscar-winning actor Will Smith at the 94th Academy Awards ceremony for making a joke about Smith’s wife Jada Pinkett Smith's hair condition, has reportedly refused to file a police complaint against the actor.

The internet is divided over the incident as some of them have been defending Will Smith for trying to “honour his wife” while some others have condemned the actor for publicly assaulting the comedian. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), in a statement, said, “LAPD investigative entities are aware of an incident between two individuals during the Academy Awards program. The incident involved one individual slapping another. The individual involved has declined to file a police report. If the involved party desires a police report at a later date, LAPD will be available to complete an investigative report.”

In a long apology note that he posted on his Instagram page, Will Smith claimed that he was embarrassed by his actions. “Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally. I would like to publicly apologise to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness,” he said.