HOLLYWOOD actor Will Smith has been banned from the Oscars for ten years. Will Smith slapped Chris Rock after the comedian made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head. He apologized to the Academy and everyone involved in his Best Actor speech. He later apologized to Chris Rock in an Instagram post the next day.
After their meeting on Friday, April 8, 2022 to discuss the consequences for the actor following his slap of comedian, Chris Rock during the 94th Oscars telecast, the Board of Governors for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences voted to ban Smith from all Academy events including the Oscars for 10 years.
The Academy’s statement reads, “The 94th Oscars were meant to be a celebration of the many individuals in our community who did incredible work this past year; however, those moments were overshadowed by the unacceptable and harmful behavior we saw Mr. Smith exhibit on stage.”
“During our telecast, we did not adequately address the situation in the room. For this, we are sorry. This was an opportunity for us to set an example for our guests, viewers and our Academy family around the world, and we fell short — unprepared for the unprecedented.”
“Today, the Board of Governors convened a meeting to discuss how best to respond to Will Smith’s actions at the Oscars, in addition to accepting his resignation. The Board has decided, for a period of 10 years from April 8, 2022, Mr. Smith shall not be permitted to attend any Academy events or programs, in person or virtually, including but not limited to the Academy Awards.”
“We want to express our deep gratitude to Mr. Rock for maintaining his composure under extraordinary circumstances. We also want to thank our hosts, nominees, presenters and winners for their poise and grace during our telecast.”
“This action we are taking today in response to Will Smith’s behavior is a step toward a larger goal of protecting the safety of our performers and guests, and restoring trust in the Academy. We also hope this can begin a time of healing and restoration for all involved and impacted.”
Will Smith who had resigned from the Academy last week replied soon after in a statement saying “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.”
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