Photo by Engin Akyurt
“I want a real love, dark skinned Aunt Viv love…
That Jada and that Will love.” Remember when this line first came out? It was a hit! I know, pun was kind of intended there. But shortly after finding out about Jada Pinkett-Smith’s extramarital activities and then the open marriage, folks rejected the line and wanted nothing to do with their type of love. Well, it’s a hit again! After Will Smith slapped Chris Rock for making a joke about Jada’s hair style, which is caused by a medical condition, many are back on board for that Jada and that Will love.
But for every fan of Will’s actions, there are dissenters and even more jokes. This is the result of such an unexpected reaction on the biggest stage for entertainers. The jokes are pointed at everyone from Will, to Chris, and even again to Jada. I’ve spent many hours after witnessing the soap enjoying the comedic experience that social media has provided in the last 17 hours or so.
The biggest question I believe this event presents to us all is what does this mean for comedy? Has a precedent been set that if a joke is told by a professional comedian, which offends us, it’s ok to resort to violence? Many have already ruled out intent during the discussions that have gone on about this incident, so intent wouldn’t be considered in this new rule when talking about those offended. Does this new rule come into effect now or does it have a retroactive effect? If so, every comedian is likely to have a target on their back.
What do you think about this incident? Check back later for updates to this piece. It may evolve as more details come out.
BIRDCITYVIEW 