Serena, Venus Williams' father defends Will Smith, says it's time for 'everyone' to forgive actor

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Richard Williams, the father of tennis greats Serena and Venus, defended actor Will Smith for slapping comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars last year as the 2023 Academy Awards loom.

Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, at last year’s show which prompted Smith to get up from his seat, storm the stage and slap the host. The incident marred the show as Smith won Best Actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams in the film "King Richard" – which was about the father of the tennis stars teaching and coaching his daughters.

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Will Smith, right, took issue with Chris Rock's joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, leading him to slap the comedian across the face. (ROBYN BECK/AFP)

Will Smith, right, is no longer a member of the academy, resigning himself as well as being banned for 10 years. (Neilson Barnard/Getty Images)

On Monday, Williams spoke to "Good Morning Britain" about the slap for the first time.

"I think he has done the best thing he needed to do, but I would never be disgusted with Mr. Smith. Matter of fact, I appreciate Mr. Smith," Williams said.

Serena Williams, right, of the USA celebrates with her father Richard Williams after her Ladies’ Singles final match against Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland on day 12 of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 7, 2012 in London. (Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Williams said he "didn’t feel sorry" for Rock.

CHRIS ROCK TAKES AIM AT JADA PINKETT'S AFFAIR AND UNUSUAL MARRIAGE TO WILL SMITH: 'SHE HURT HIM WAY MORE'

"It’s time for everyone to forgive Will Smith," he