Denzel Washington speaks out after Will Smith Oscars slap: 'The only solution was prayer'

Denzel Washington has spoken out for the first time since Will Smith slapped Chris Rock at this years Oscars.

During an appearance on a panel at pastor TD Jakes' annual International Leadership Summit on Saturday, the actor explained his reasoning for getting up after witnessing the dramatic incident.

"No way I could have sat in my seat," the 67-year-old said during the event live-streamed by The Wrap. "That's just not who I am."

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Washington was among a few people — including Tyler Perry and Bradley Cooper — who were seen speaking with Smith, 53, shortly after he hit the comedian for making a joke about his wife, Jada, appearing in a sequel for G.I Jane.

Pinkett has been open about her journey with alopecia and rolled her eyes when the joke was made.

In the wake of Smith slapping Rock, Washington recounted an old adage that resonated with him, according to The Wrap, The Hollywood Reporter, and Variety.

"There's a saying when the devil ignores you, then you know you're doing something wrong," Washington told Jakes.

"The devil goes, 'Oh no leave him alone, he's my favourite.' Conversely, when the devil comes at you, maybe it's because he's trying to do something right. And for whatever reason, the devil got ahold of him that night."

Following the incident, Smith went on the win best actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams in the film, King Richard. He publicly apologised to the Academy during his acceptance speech, while also mentioning Washington.

"At your highest moment, be careful, that's when the devil comes for you," Smith claimed Washington said to him just before his speech.

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Washington said he wasn't alone in speaking to Smith after the slap, saying that "others [like] Tyler Perry came immediately right over there with me" after the incident, according to the outlets.

Washington did not reveal exactly what was said but he told Jakes that "some prayers" were shared between the celebrities.

"I don't wanna say what we talked about, but there but for the grace of God go any of us," Washington explained. He added, "Who are we to condemn? I don't know all the ins and outs of this situation, but I know the only solution was prayer, the way I saw it, the way I see it."

Yesterday, Smith resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after his behaviour.

The star revealed in a statement sent to People that he is ready to "accept any and all consequences" for his actions and said he "betrayed the trust" of the Academy.

"I have directly responded to the Academy's disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct," the Oscar-winning actor said.

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"My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable. The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy."

Smith announced he will be resigning from his membership in the Academy and apologised for eclipsing the celebrations of other Oscar winners during the 94th Academy Awards.