OPINION | This article contains commentary that reflects the author's opinion.
The man who allegedly attacked comedian Dave Chappelle on stage has been identified by authorities as 23-year-old Isaiah Lee.
In an interview with The New York Post, Lee said that Chapelle’s jokes about homelessness and the LGBTQ were “triggering” him.
“I identify as bisexual,” Lee explained. “And I wanted him to know what he said was triggering.
“I wanted him to know that next time, he should consider first running his material by people it could affect.”
Lee has also been homeless. “I’m also a single dad and my son is 5,” Lee said. “It’s a struggle and I wanted Dave Chappelle to know it’s not a joke.”
Lee was intercepted by security and suffered a broken arm and two black eyes. He was carrying a replica gun with a knife blade inside when he allegedly attacked Chappelle during the Hollywood Bowl, police say.
Lee is being held on $30,000 bail as he’s charged with four misdemeanor counts, including battery, possession of a weapon with intent to assault, unauthorized access to the stage area during a performance, and commission of an act that delays the event or interferes with the performer.
Lee pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The attack reportedly occurred as Chappelle was nearing the end of his show.
Actor Jamie Foxx and rapper Busta Rhymes also reportedly jumped in to help rescue him. Chappelle thanked them both. “Whenever you’re in trouble Jamie Foxx will show up in a sheriff’s hat,” Chappelle joked.
Comedian Chris Rock, who performed earlier that same night, then appeared on stage and said “Was that Will Smith?”
Actor Will Smith notoriously slapped Rock at the Academy Awards after the comedian cracked a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s bald head, referring to the 1997 film “G.I. Jane.”
Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after slapping Chris Rock during the Oscar’s on Sunday.
Smith announced his resignation in a statement on Friday, and states that he has “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. 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 said. “I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken.”
“I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film. So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.”
“Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason,” Smith added.
