Will Smith Accepts Emmy With Nod To 2022 Oscars Slapgate: I Come In Peace

A surprised Will Smith, the veteran British comedy writer-producer behind Apple TV+’s Slow Horses, began his Emmy acceptance speech for Writing for a Drama Series with a light-hearted reference to his name.

“First off, relax,” Smith said. “Despite my name, I come in peace.” This remark alluded to the infamous 2022 Oscars incident when American actor Will Smith slapped presenter Chris Rock over a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith.

Smith continued by expressing his gratitude to Mick Herron, the author of the Slough House books on which Slow Horses is based. He also thanked Jay Hunt, Apple TV+’s Europe boss, his team of writers, and most notably, Gary Oldman and the entire cast of the show.

This Emmy win marks the first for Slow Horses, which, in its third season, earned nine nominations. The series’ fourth season is currently streaming.

Meanwhile, Jessica Gunning was awarded Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie at the 2024 Emmy Awards, held on Sunday, September 15. Gunning, recognised for her role in Baby Reindeer, accepted the honour with heartfelt gratitude.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Debicki won her first Emmy for playing Princess Diana in The Crown, earning Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series at the 76th Emmys. Jeremy Allen White won Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for The Bear at the 2024 Emmys, marking his second consecutive win. “My heart is just beating outside of its chest,” he said. Jean Smart won lead actress for a comedy series for Hacks