The motion pictures academy on Friday banned actor Will Smith from attending the Oscars or any other academy event for 10 years following his slap of Chris Rock at the Academy Awards.
The development comes two weeks after the actor’s reaction on stage when he slapped the host Chris Rock across the face in response to a joke the comic made about his wife’s closely cropped hair. Actress Jada Pinkett Smith has alopecia, a hair loss condition.
“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,” the academy said in a statement.
“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,” the statement added.
“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,” wrote president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson.
The ban also means Smith will not be presenting one of the major awards at next year’s Oscars, as is tradition for the best actor winner.
