Will Smith has been banned by The Academy for the next 10 years. Smith is not allowed to attend an academy event or program, which includes the Oscars.
The decision was stated through a letter, which is signed by Academy David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson:
“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.”
Smith has been the talk of entertainment news for the past couple of weeks after going on stage during the Oscars and slapping Chris Rock. This punishment also comes after Smith resigned his membership from The Academy.
In the letter, The Academy also apologized for not “adequately” addressing the altercatin when it happened and their appreciation for Rock for staying composed.
“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.
“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.”
