Steve Coogan hit out at “cynical” Hollywood in a recent Q&A with Express.co.uk and other press, claiming it “waits to see how the wind blows” before passing judgement on whether someone should be “cancelled” or not.

Chivalry star Steve’s remarks came in the wake of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars for making a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss. 

“I think in terms of Hollywood, what to me is interesting about it is that, ultimately, the bottom line decisions in Hollywood are bottom line decisions,” Steve said. 

“Even the decisions that appear to be ethical or moral decisions are ultimately underpinned by a commercial decision. 

“And so that idea of enlightenment in Hollywood, is it an enlightenment, or giving dividends to shareholders? 

“My behaviour at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally.

“I would like to publicly apologise to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be.

“There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.

“I would also like to apologise to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world.