Anger management: How could Will Smith’s attack on Chris Rock have been avoided?
The IndependentStay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Viewers of Sunday evening’s Oscars ceremony were astonished to watch Will Smith strike comedian Chris Rock after he made a joke at the expense of his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. “Of course, we’d all be upset if we heard someone joking about our loved ones in public, but physical assault isn’t the way to resolve the matter.” She added: “Smith had every right to be upset but stepping away from the source of this emotion would have been a much better response followed up with a private conversation with Rock afterwards to discuss why he thought his jokes were inappropriate. You need to be brutally honesty with yourself and take accountability.” Some commentators criticised Smith’s subsequent comment after the incident that “love makes you do crazy things”. I hear a lot from people who called 20 years ago and arrive 20 years later saying, ‘I wish I came when I first called 20 years ago’.” Ms Haig recommends seeking professional help for those struggling with anger in order to “uncover the source of your anger”.