Will Smith’s infamous altercation with Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars shocked the world, but could it be part of a deeper pattern of behavior rooted in his past? A closer look reveals that Smith’s history with revenge may have started over three decades ago, long before his tumultuous relationship with Jada Pinkett Smith and his clash with Rock.

In interviews and his 2021 memoir Will, Smith candidly shared how past experiences of humiliation and powerlessness shaped his outlook on conflict. An event from 1991—around the time of his rise as a rapper and actor—reportedly left a lasting impact on how he responds to personal challenges. Sources suggest that an incident involving public embarrassment during his early career might have planted the seeds for a “revenge mindset” that later surfaced in key moments of his life.

From his complicated marriage dynamics to his explosive reaction at the Oscars, fans and analysts are revisiting these events with fresh eyes. Could Smith’s need to reclaim control in tense situations explain the striking parallels? And how has this played out across his career and personal life?

As discussions surrounding Smith’s past resurface, questions remain about whether the star can break free from this alleged cycle—or if it’s simply part of who he is.