John Waters Pitches Oscars Hosting Gig with Chris Rock and Will Smith

The legendary filmmaker shares his ideas for a memorable Academy Awards ceremony.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:15pm

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An abstract close-up photograph featuring a dramatic composition of shattered glass, glittering sequins, and plush velvet textures, all captured in high-contrast studio lighting to create a visually striking and conceptual representation of the glamour and drama associated with the Oscars.The Oscars ceremony has long been a stage for both celebration and controversy, with the potential for Waters' irreverent humor to bring a fresh perspective to the event.Los Angeles Today

In a recent interview, iconic filmmaker John Waters expressed his desire to host the Oscars, suggesting he would have Chris Rock and Will Smith present together. Waters envisions a humorous segment featuring their infamous 2022 Slap incident, saying 'They would come out and the movie 'Sissy Boy Slap Party' would be showing.' The 80-year-old director also discussed his upcoming birthday tour, his thoughts on Donald Trump, and his lifelong passion for pushing boundaries through comedy.

Why it matters

Waters' pitch for an Oscars hosting gig with Rock and Smith highlights his signature irreverent humor and willingness to tackle controversial topics. As the Academy continues to navigate the fallout from the 2022 Slap incident, Waters' unconventional ideas could offer a fresh perspective on how to address the situation with levity. His longstanding career as a provocative filmmaker also provides insight into the evolution of boundary-pushing comedy and the power of using humor to change minds.

The details

In the interview, Waters shares his vision for hosting the Oscars, saying he would have Chris Rock and Will Smith present together, with the film 'Sissy Boy Slap Party' playing in the background. The 80-year-old director is known for his outrageous and subversive humor, having made a name for himself with films like 'Pink Flamingos' and 'Hairspray.' Despite his age, Waters remains energetic and enthusiastic about his work, noting that he toured extensively last year and plans to continue his birthday celebration shows. He also reflects on his first visit to Los Angeles in the 1970s, when he was arrested for jaywalking, and shares his thoughts on Donald Trump, whom he encountered at Studio 54 in the past.

  • In 1964, Waters made his first film, a short called 'Hag in a Black Leather Jacket'.
  • In 1969, Waters directed his debut feature film, 'Mondo Trasho'.
  • In 1970, Waters traveled to Los Angeles for the premiere of his film 'Multiple Maniacs'.
  • In 2026, Waters will celebrate his 80th birthday on April 22.

The players

John Waters

An iconic American filmmaker known for his subversive and boundary-pushing comedies, including 'Pink Flamingos,' 'Hairspray,' and 'Serial Mom.'

Chris Rock

A renowned American comedian, actor, and filmmaker who was involved in a high-profile incident at the 2022 Oscars ceremony.

Will Smith

An acclaimed American actor who was involved in a high-profile incident at the 2022 Oscars ceremony.

David Lochary

An American actor who accompanied Waters on his first trip to Los Angeles in the 1970s.

Divine

A frequent collaborator of Waters and a legendary drag queen superstar who starred in many of his films.

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What they’re saying

“I would have Chris Rock and Will Smith present. They would come out and the movie 'Sissy Boy Slap Party' would be showing. It's a hilarious underground movie.”

— John Waters, Filmmaker

“What gay kid hasn't done an Oscar acceptance speech? I'd rather be the host of the Oscars. I hosted the Spirit Awards many times, so I've already auditioned.”

— John Waters, Filmmaker

“Humor is terrorism. Humor is how you win wars. Humor is what I used as protection in high school, not to get beat up. You use it. That's the power of humor, and that's how you change people's minds.”

— John Waters, Filmmaker

What’s next

Waters plans to pitch his Oscars hosting idea to the Academy, hoping to bring his unique brand of irreverent humor to the ceremony and address the 2022 Slap incident in a memorable way.

The takeaway

John Waters' desire to host the Oscars and his unconventional ideas for the ceremony, including involving Chris Rock and Will Smith, showcase his enduring commitment to pushing boundaries and using comedy to challenge societal norms. As an influential filmmaker who has spent decades exploring the power of subversive humor, Waters' perspective could offer a fresh approach to addressing controversies and revitalizing the Oscars broadcast.