Nicole Kidman’s Insta-Famous Reaction Pic Was Taken Before Will Smith Slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars

The origins of Nicole Kidman’s viral Oscars picture have been exposed.

Kidman, 54, is seen with her mouth wide in amazement, her brows arched, and one arm outstretched. Many Twitter users assumed the photo was taken when Will Smith smacked Chris Rock onstage, but Vulture says that there’s more to the meme than that.

Smith, 53, hit Rock, 57, when the comedian presented the prize for Best Documentary and made a joke about Jada Pinkett-hair. Smith’s The 50-year-old actress has been candid about her alopecia and debuted her shaved haircut in July 2021.

The snapshot of Kidman was taken hours before Will attacked Rock, according to the publication, saying that “the photo was already making the rounds by at least 7:34 ET, 26 minutes before the show even began.”

Although Kidman’s stunned look was quickly associated with the slap, the photographer who captured it stated that it had nothing to do with the altercation.

Myung Chun, a photographer for the Los Angeles Times, told Vulture that the shot of Kidman was taken “during the non-televised section.”

“She looked to be delighted to meet Jessica Chastain across the room. “Kidman then held out her arms and waved to her with both hands,” Chun said, adding that “shortly after, Chastain came over to welcome Kidman and her husband Keith Urban.””

At the Oscars, both Chastain and Kidman were nominated for Best Actress. Kidman received an Oscar nomination for Being the Ricardos, while Chastain received an Oscar nomination for The Eyes of Tammy Faye. Later in the evening, Chastain, 45, won her first Oscar for Best Actress.

Will hit Rock while presenting the Best Documentary award and made a joke about Jada’s hair resembling Demi Moore’s shaved head in G.I. Jane.

Following Rock’s remark, “Jada, I adore you. I can’t wait to see you in G.I. Jane 2,” Will rose from his seat and approached Rock onstage, slapping him across the face.

“Oh my goodness. Will Smith really knocked the s—- out of me “Rock said following the event. “Keep my wife’s name out of your f—-ing lips!” shouted Will from his seat.