The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Board of Governors has decided to ban Will Smith from all Oscar events for the next 10 years for slapping Chris Rock on-stage at the 94th Academy Awards on March 27.
Will issued a written public apology to Chris on March 28, then resigned from the Academy on April 1 saying that his actions were “inexcusable.”
Because of his resignation, the board was forced to move up their meeting from April 18 to April 8.
We were required to provide Mr. Smith notice 15 days prior to the board meeting at which such action might be taken, and also give him the opportunity to provide the board a written statement no less than five days prior to that meeting.
AMPAS President David Rubin
AMPAS President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson issued the following letter to the Academy members on Friday (April 8).
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.
Thank you
Will Smith issued a statement saying, “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.”
Considering the fact that Will already has his Oscar in hand, do you think he really cares about the ban?
Source: Deadline
