A day after superstar Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock minutes before accepting the best actor Oscar at the 94th Academy Awards, Hollywood power brokers remained publicly silent even as celebrities criticized the attack on social media.
The lack of a reaction is a testament to Smith's broad popularity in Hollywood, and his powerful box office cachet, according to some observers.
But Hollywood is unlikely to altogether abandon Smith, 53, one of its most bankable stars, said industry insiders. Another executive predicted the controversy would blow over, noting, "He's a talented guy at the top of his game ... This will be a blip and won't matter long- or even short-term." Netflix, Disney and Apple did not reply to requests for comment. Kevin Mayer, co-CEO of Candle Media, the Blackstone-backed