Lakers Legend Calls Out Will Smith Skeptics Over the Time He Took to Apologize for Slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars: “Feels Like Commerce More than Conscience”

Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has responded to Will Smith’s recent apology pertaining to his actions at the 2022 Academy Awards. In fact, the former Lakers center chimed in with his two cents on the sincerity of the apology. He also called out detractors for dismissing Smith’s monologue as a PR move.

Four months after the infamous night at the Oscars, Will Smith finally issued an apology to Chris Rock and his family. In fact, the veteran actor admitted that his actions that night were unacceptable and he is very remorseful of his conduct. Moreover, he also apologized to the award winners and nominees of the ceremony for ruining their special moment.

As it turns out, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar seemed empathetic to Smith’s words. However, he called out skeptics for questioning the sincerity of Smith’s apology and criticizing the time taken for him to respond.

Lakers legend calls out Smith’s detractors

Smith’s apology has received mixed reactions on the internet. Some fans have applauded the actor for owning his mistakes and apologizing. On the other hand, others have dismissed the apology as a PR stunt to appease fans. Especially because Smith’s response came after a lengthy period of indifferent silence.

Meanwhile, Abdul-Jabbar addressed the issue in his recent take on the subject. “Skeptics will also point out that taking four months to respond feels like commerce more than conscience“, said the former Los Angeles Lakers All-Star.

However, Abdul-Jabbar seemed to disagree with the idea. “I’m going to look at his words and accept that they are sincere and honest. I’m going to believe that after a lengthy period of soul-searching, family rebuilding, and moral prioritizing, he was ready to face a shocked and disapproving world“, he added.

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In other words, Abdul-Jabbar expressed his willingness to accept Smith’s apology as genuine and heartfelt. In fact, the six-time NBA champion sees no point in persistent finger-pointing rather than allowing growth and redemption. As it turns out, he actually applauds Smith for taking some time to introspect before choosing to face the world.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s previous take on the issue

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had heavily criticized Will Smith for his actions at the Oscars. In fact, he blamed the popular actor for perpetuating negative stereotypes about African-American people.

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However, the Lakers legend is open to allowing people to correct their mistakes. Therefore, he has accepted Smith’s apology as sincere and genuine.

What did you make of Will Smith’s apology? Let us know in the comments below.