In one of the most controversial incidents in Academy Awards history, Will Smith stormed the stage and slapped Chris Rock, after the host made a joke about wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss.

The actor, who won his first Academy Award for King Richard, appeared to take offence to a gag Rock made about Pinkett Smith’s short haircut.

Referring to Pinkett Smith’s buzzcut, Rock said: “Jada, can’t wait for GI Jane 2”, prompting the actress to roll her eyes.

However, Smith walked up on stage and appeared to hit Rock before returning to his seat and shouting twice: “Keep my wife’s name out of your f****** mouth.”

WATCH: Will Smith punches Chris Rock at Oscars

The altercation left Rock shocked and flustered as he tried to resume presenting the best documentary feature category.

The Chronicle asked its readers this morning "Does Will Smith owe Chris Rock an apology after slapping him on stage at the Oscars? " - and opinions were split.

One defended Will Smith, writing: "I think he deserved it but then it's still not okay to hit anyone. Morally he bl**** well deserve two slaps but by law it's just a comment/opinion that is free will to voice."

Whereas others think he should be punished for his actions.

Ann Barnes said "Yeah he definitely should there was no need for that. He could of went up to him after the Oscars and had a word with him not doing it live on TV. He just showed his self up because afterwards he apologised."

Lisa Sawyer added: "Yes he does there is no time for violence at all could of spoke to him after what he said will thinks he's the big man well he's not." 

Carl Ward also said: "So When is Chris rock pressing charges? If I'd done that I'd be in a cell by now? I total get why he done it. As id most probably do the same. But by Law you cant go round just slapping people and have nothing said."

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.