Note: Some readers might find the language used in paragraphs 2 and 6 offensive.

Frank McGurty, Daniel Trotta

LOS ANGELES, (Reuters) – Best actor nominee Will Smith slapped presenter Chris Rock with an open face and shouted vulgarities at him for laughing about his wife’s attendance at Sunday’s Oscars ceremony.

Although the episode appeared at first to be a joke, Smith said that it was actually serious and that Smith would not let Smith speak of his wife’s name.

Due to the use of language, the audio of the broadcast appeared cut.

Rock was grilling some nominees, and after mentioning Smith Smith, he said about Jada Pinkett Smith that he loved her. G.I. Jane II., I can’t wait until it comes.”

Smith was soon on the platform toward Rock. Rock had his hands behind him when Smith opened his hand to Rock. This produced an audible smack.

“Oh, wow! Wow! Wow! “Wow, dude. It was G.I. Jane joke, referring to 1997’s film “G.I. Jane.” Jane,” in which Demi Moore cut her hair.

Smith made the statement that may be one of Oscar’s most recited phrases: “Keep your wife’s name in your fuckingmouth.”

Rock said, “I’m planning to.” Rock replied, “That’s the greatest evening in the history television.”

Smith repeated the phrase louder, and more purposefully.

Initial impressions were that Smith’s anger was part of the act. The audience sat silently and audibly gasped after Smith got up from his seat. The mezzanine was filled with people who stood up, craned their heads and tried to get a look.

Smith received the nomination for Best Actor for King Richard. Smith had not received the award yet, which meant that Smith could return to the stage should he win.