Four years after the moment that stunned Hollywood during the Academy Awards, life looks very different for Will Smith. The actor faced global backlash following the now infamous incident involving comedian Chris Rock on the Oscars stage — a moment that quickly became one of the most talked-about controversies in entertainment history. In the years since the slap, Smith has largely stepped back from the spotlight, choosing a far quieter and more private routine compared to the fast-paced celebrity life he once lived. Sources say the actor has been focusing on reflection, rebuilding relationships, and gradually returning to work while trying to move beyond the intense scrutiny that followed the incident. But despite attempts to shift the narrative, the moment still lingers in public memory. And according to people close to Smith, one particular aspect of his life has changed more than fans may realize since that night.
WILL Smith is still haunted by the fallout from his infamous Oscars slap, a source close to the Hollywood legend has told The U.S. Sun.
Four years have passed since the Men in Black star shocked the world by slapping host Chris Rock after a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
A source close to Will Smith has told The U.S. Sun the A-list superstar is still struggling to come to terms with his infamous attack on Chris Rock
Smith is reportedly as focused as ever on his family
The Academy handed Smith a 10-year ban, and the star has since retreated from Hollywood’s bright lights.
But a source who has known the actor and musician for decades tells The U.S. Sun that the 57-year-old has dramatically reshaped his life since that wild night in Los Angeles.
“At times he still feels hesitant about public appearances or large events. The memory of the slap is still there, and he knows some people might joke about it or try to provoke him,” the insider said.
“He’s become more private than he used to be. In many ways he enjoys that quieter life now — even though he still has moments when he feels down about everything that happened.”
The intense spotlight on his marriage — and the questions about his behavior — followed the incident, which has been dubbed ‘the slap heard around the world.’
Smith lost the plot when Rock mocked his wife’s struggles with alopecia.
“Keep my wife’s name out of your f***ing mouth”, he screamed.
It showed he still cares about Pinkett Smith despite the couple openly discussing their relationship struggles, describing themselves as “life partners” and saying they do not have a traditional marriage.
“He has had ups and downs with his love life and his relationship with Jada, especially with the way people perceive them and criticize her for things he has gone through since the slap,” the source continued.
“He really dislikes that, which is why he rarely reads celebrity news anymore.
“It just frustrates him. He has had tough moments since that incident, but he works through it with therapy and meditation, which help him stay calm and find peace within his own bubble.”
Smith now prioritizes routines that keep him grounded.
Exercising, spending time in nature, and embracing the lives of his two children — Jaden, Willow and Trey — are central to his daily life.
He reportedly has no problems answering a call “at 3am” and embraces his role as a “daddy bear.”
“He loves his family deeply, but he also values spending time alone — working out, playing basketball, or taking long walks in the forest or by the beach,” said the friend. “Being in nature and having time to himself helps him reflect and feel more balanced.”
New direction
Even with a lower public profile, Smith remains creatively active, albeit away from the silver screen.
He last appeared in a movie in 2024, following the release of Bad Boys: Ride or Die.
The source says Smith’s phone is “always on,” and being on a film set is where “he feels most at ease.”
But the Oscars controversy, which erupted at the 94th awards, has permanently dimmed Hollywood’s bright lights for him.
“He has also been writing a lot — poems and essays — and reading widely, from classic literature to younger authors,” claimed the source. “Many topics he’s interested in relate to world history and social movements. He cares deeply about issues like racism and the direction the world is heading.”
While he may avoid some massive acting roles that defined him as an A-list star, his career achievements remain impressive.
Legendary career
He was nominated for Best Actor for portraying boxing legend Muhammad Ali in 2002, in 2007 for The Pursuit of Happyness alongside his son Jaden, and for Best Picture for King Richard four years ago, which he helped produce.
His one Oscar came on the night of his clash with Rock, and although his blockbuster work has slowed, the insider says the Fresh Prince has become more reflective as he approaches his late 50s — thinking about time, legacy, and the choices he makes.
“He loves traveling and exploring new cultures — especially Arabic and Mediterranean cultures — and seeing more of the world,” said the source.
“At the same time, getting closer to 60 has made him reflective. He wants to make the most of his life and have no regrets about the things he chooses to pursue.”
That reflective, supportive side extends beyond his own family.
Smith mentors younger artists who reach out to him for guidance and is more than happy to share his wisdom with younger, up and coming stars.
“He tries to send positive energy to people and show empathy toward the next generation because he knows how difficult the film and music industries can be,” explained the insider.
Creativity remains a major outlet, with music at its core.
He and lifelong friend DJ Jazzy Jeff won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1989, before producing hits like Summertime, Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It, and Miami.
Music is “a big passion for him” and The U.S. Sun understands he has artists interested in collaborating, including Spanish- and Arabic-speaking artists from overseas.
“He wants to experiment with different genres and blend his music with other styles,” confirmed the friend.
Smith has also reportedly explored investments, including international real estate projects in Europe and Morocco, because “he wants to diversify his portfolio and create opportunities for his family in different parts of the world.”
“Whenever their schedules allow it, he spends time traveling with his kids and learning new things with them — like playing guitar, reading literature, and writing poems and songs,” concluded the source.
“Exploring things intellectually and creatively is very important to his sense of balance.
“He wants to be a positive influence and a source of inspiration for his family while continuing to learn about the world and be inspired by people who didn’t have the same opportunities he’s had. He has a big heart and does a lot for others.
“He loves spending time with his family, and he’s proud that his kids are building their own paths. He’s always there to advise them and be the best father he can be. That’s a life mission for him — he’ll support them no matter what.”
Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith have been open about their marriage issues
Smith, with his award in 2022 for Best Actor in a Leading Role for “King Richard”, poses with (from R) his sons Trey Smith and Jaden Smith, daughter Willow Smith and wife Jada Pinkett Smith
