Summary of "Stephen A's Take: I had a Will Smith Intervention"

Release Date: February 1, 2025
Podcast: The Stephen A. Smith Show
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Co-Guest: Antoine Fuqua

1. Introduction: Will Smith's Return to the Spotlight

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into the highly anticipated return of Will Smith to major award stages, specifically his role as a presenter at the 2025 Grammy Awards. This marks a significant moment for Smith, who has been relatively absent from such high-profile events since the infamous incident at the 2022 Oscars, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock.

Stephen A. Smith opens the discussion by highlighting the gravity of Smith's appearance at the Grammys:

"[01:02] Stephen A. Smith: The 2025 Grammy Awards are this weekend and some of the presenters have been announced. Earlier today, the Recording Academy revealed that Cardi B, SZA, and Will Smith will join Taylor Swift among the presenters at the award show."

2. Contextual Background: The 2022 Oscars Incident

Smith provides a brief overview of the events that have kept Will Smith out of major award shows. The altercation with Chris Rock at the Oscars had reverberated through Hollywood, affecting not only Smith's reputation but also those closely associated with him in the industry.

3. Stephen A. Smith's Critical Perspective

As a friend of Chris Rock, Stephen A. Smith expresses his critical stance towards Will Smith's actions. However, he also acknowledges the broader implications of the incident on Smith's associates and the industry at large.

"[01:57] Stephen A. Smith: I want to thank the great Antoine. Fuqua, the director and producer extraordinaire who did Emancipation with Will Smith, would have won an Oscar for that too, had Will Smith not slapped comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars in 2022."

Smith emphasizes the "collateral damage" caused by Smith's actions, pondering how it affects not just him but also key figures like Antoine Fuqua, Will Packer, and Chris Rock.

4. Antoine Fuqua's Insightful Response

Antoine Fuqua, a renowned director and producer, joins the conversation to provide a personal and professional perspective on the incident and its aftermath. He expresses his initial displeasure with Will Smith's actions but also reflects on the potential long-term impacts on their careers and relationships.

"[02:08] Antoine Fuqua: I want to thank Will Packer, who produced the Oscars, that same Oscars that Will Smith did, what he did with Chris Rock. I want to thank my man Dougie Cash, who used to work at Hulu."

Fuqua shares how his colleagues reached out to him directly, urging him to reconsider his stance on Will Smith. He admits to having reservations but ultimately acknowledges Smith's contributions and character beyond the incident.

"[02:23] Stephen A. Smith: And used to work under Will Smith."
"[02:25] Antoine Fuqua: Years ago and stuff like that..."

Fuqua elaborates on his internal conflict, balancing his disappointment with a recognition of Smith's artistic talents and positive influence.

5. Moving Forward: Forgiveness and Professionalism

Both Smith and Fuqua discuss the importance of moving past the incident for the sake of their careers and personal relationships. Fuqua underscores the concept that everyone is flawed and deserves the opportunity to redeem themselves.

"[04:10] Antoine Fuqua: Will Smith is a fantastic artist who's done so much for so many people in this world, especially folks from our community... We should just march ahead and wish him nothing but the best to him and his family."

Stephen A. Smith echoes this sentiment, advocating for forgiveness and the recognition of Smith's positive attributes despite the setback.

"[05:54] Stephen A. Smith: He made a mistake and all of us should move on. Especially since Chris Rock has moved on and we should just march ahead and wish him nothing but the best to him and his family."

6. Conclusion: A Hope for Reconciliation and Growth

The episode wraps up with both hosts expressing hope that Will Smith can rebuild his reputation and continue to contribute positively to the entertainment industry. They emphasize the importance of community, support, and the capacity for individuals to grow beyond their mistakes.

Notable Quotes:

• "How could he lose himself and hurt all of us like that?"
  — Antoine Fuqua [02:06]

• "None of us want to be measured by our worst moment. All of us are flawed in the eyes of God."
  — Antoine Fuqua [04:48]

• "He made a mistake and all of us should move on."
  — Stephen A. Smith [05:54]

This episode provides a balanced exploration of Will Smith's controversial past actions and the broader implications for his professional relationships and personal growth. Through candid dialogue, Stephen A. Smith and Antoine Fuqua highlight the complexities of forgiveness, accountability, and the enduring impact of public figures within their communities.