Less than two weeks after the 2022 Oscars ceremony where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock in the face, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced its decision.
Will Smith is banned from the Oscars for the next ten years.
The Academy issued its decision via a statement.
“The 94th Academy Awards were meant to be a celebration of many people who have done incredible work over the past year; however, those moments were overshadowed by the unacceptable and damaging behavior Mr. Smith displayed on stage. During our program, we did not adequately address the situation in the room. We apologize for that. This was our opportunity to set an example for our guests, our viewers, and the Academy family around the world, and we did not rise to the occasion – unprepared for what was unprecedented”, explains the letter signed by Academy President David Rubin, and Executive Director Dawn Hudson.
“Today, the Board of Governors met to discuss how best to respond to Will Smith’s actions at the Oscars, in addition to accepting his resignation. The Board decided that, for a period of 10 years beginning April 8, 2022, Mr. Smith will not be permitted to attend any Academy events or programs, in person or virtually, including, but not limited to, the Academy Awards ceremony.”
The letter goes on to support Chris Rock.
“We want to express our deep appreciation to Mr. Rock for keeping his cool under extraordinary circumstances. We also want to thank our hosts, nominees, presenters and award winners for their composure and elegance during our broadcast. The action we are taking today in response to Will Smith’s behavior is one step toward a broader goal of protecting the safety of our performers and guests and restoring trust in the Academy. We also hope that this action can mark the beginning of a period of healing and restoration for everyone involved and affected.”