Almost two weeks after everyone at the Dolby Theater was in for a shock when Hollywood star Will Smith walked up to the stage and slapped comic artist Chris Rock over his humorous remark on Will's wife Jada Pinkett Smith, the Academy has declared its decision of banning the actor for 10 years.
As per Variety, the Academy's statement read, "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."
The statement further elaborated how the Board of Governors discussed the matter and took disciplinary action against Will, imposing on him a ten-year ban from the Oscars. "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," the statement further read.
Soon after, Smith released a statement on the matter accepting the ruling. In one sentence statement, obtained by Comic Book.com, Smith wrote, “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision."
(Source: Variety/Comic Book.com)
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