Richard Williams’ son speaks after Will Smith referenced his father during his acceptance speech
Richard Williams
Chavoita LeSane, the son of Richard Williams, and half-brother to tennis champions Serena and Venus Williams, is speaking out about Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.
While accepting his award after hitting Chris, Will referenced his role in King Richard and compared his protective behavior to Richard’s.
Will said: “Art imitates life. I look like the crazy father.”
He added: “Richard Williams was a fierce defender of his family. In this time in my life, in this moment I am overwhelmed by what God is calling on me to do and be in this world.
“Making this film, I got to protect Aunjanue Ellis who is one the most strongest, most delicate people I’ve ever met. I got to protect Saniyya and Demi, the two actresses that play Venus and Serena…I’m being called on in my life to love people and to protect people.”
But, Richard’s son has not said that his family does not condone such behaviour as displayed by Will Smith.
“We don’t know all the details of what happened, but we don’t condone anyone hitting anyone else unless it’s in self-defense,” Chavoita said in a statement to NBC.
