John, lots of things went on there that were not admirable.

Will Smith whacking Chris Rock wasn't about defense -- or at least not defense of his wife. There were likely a mixture of reasons including not looking weak.

But it was an opportunity for daring and a show for the masses that Smith continued throughout the evening. Like Donald Trump, he wasn't stopped.

Smith was exercising PRIVILAGE. That he can walk onto a well lit stage and assault a performer and no one will stop him. And no one did -- for the evening and the party after. He was given a standing ovation by an accepting audience.

What I found most horrific was that NO person in the audience stood and asked for a reckoning. That Smith should immediately leave the auditorium. The lack of response from the Academy was titanic.

On all kinds of levels it was a disgrace.

Many thanks.