The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences has announced its punishment for Will Smith following his actions at this year’s Oscars ceremony.
Smith has been banned from attending the awards for the next 10 years after he infamously slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage.
“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,” Academy President David Rubin said in a statement obtained by multiple news outlets on Friday.
The decision was made during a Board of Governors meeting earlier today.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Will Smith banned from Oscars, other film academy events for 10 years for slapping Chris Rock onstage at Academy Awards.
— Jonathan Lemire (@JonLemire) April 8, 2022
Fans took to Twitter to share their reactions to this punishment.
“Wow. I mean he deserves it but I wish they had that energy for some of the other ghouls that have ran through Hollywood,” one wrote.
“I think as long as he can still win awards this is fine. Who would ever want to go to these awards anyway?” another added.
“They should be thanking him, people have actually been talking about the Oscars,” another joked.
Better send Will back to Philly to keep him out of trouble. https://t.co/1mWOEopo8U
— FlyersPuckSauce (@FlyersPuckSauce) April 8, 2022
Smith, winner of this year’s “Best Lead Actor” award, shared a brief response to the punishment.
“I accept and respect the Academy’s decision,” the “King Richard” star said in a statement to CNN.
Smith announced his resignation from the Academy last week, relinquishing his voting rights. He’s still eligible to be nominated for future awards.
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