Richard Williams says it’s time for “everyone to forgive” Will Smith

Richard Williams, who is the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena said, he’ll “always stand by” actor Will Smith, who played him in the biopic King Richard.

Williams appeared on Good Morning Britain where he discussed the infamous slap from the 2022 ceremony for the first time.

“I’ll always stand by him,” Williams, 81, said. “I think he has done the best that he needed to do. But I would never be disgusted with Mr. Smith.”

Williams added, “Matter of fact, I appreciate Mr. Smith.”

Smith took to the stage and slapped Chris Rock during his routine at the 94^th Academy Awards over a joke he made about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Williams said he “didn’t feel sorry” for Rock.

Williams was also asked whether he thought Smith was in the wrong for the slap.

“I don’t see anything wrong with that.”  Williams went on to say that “It’s time for everyone to forgive Will Smith.”

When asked whether Smith’s 10-year ban from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences should be lifted, Williams said “It definitely should be.”