Will Smith Is Officially Banned From Attending The Oscars For The Next 10 Years, According To The Academy
The 2022 Academy Awards boasted one of the most memorable moments to have ever taken place at the award show: Will Smith walked on the stage to slap Chris Rock in the face after he made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith.
Since the slap heard around the world, Will Smith has been criticized by fellow actors but also applauded by some fans for attempting to stick up for his wife. Unfortunately, Will's first Oscar win for his performance in King Richard was overshadowed by his violent attack on Chris. Will apologized on his Instagram the day after the incident and also resigned from the Academy, but there are consequences for his actions.
Will Smith Is Banned from Attending the Oscars for 10 Years
David Rubin, the president of the Academy, and CEO Dawn Hudson released an official statement saying that Will is no longer welcome at the Oscars for the next decade.
"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," the statement read.
They thanked Chris for keeping his cool "under extraordinary circumstances" while calling Will's slap "unacceptable and harmful." Additionally, they admitted that they didn't "adequately address" the assault during the award show. Apparently they were "unprepared for the unprecedented."
"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," they said. "We also hope this can begin a time of healing and restoration for all involved and impacted."
According to Buzzfeed News, Will's publicist says that he has accepted the decision.