Just over a week ago, Will Smith shocked the entertainment world when he slapped Chris Rock on stage at the 2022 Oscars.
Immediately after that occurred, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences condemned Smith’s actions. The Academy announced it had already started disciplinary proceedings regarding Smith’s actions.
“The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy,” the latest statement said.
Well, nearly two weeks later, the Academy has come to a decision. According to a statement from the Academy, Smith has been banned from all film academy events for the next 10 years.
No, that’s not a misprint. The Academy banned Will Smith from all events for a decade.
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
The Academy attempted to explain its decision in a letter.
“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,” the statement read. “We also hope this can begin a time of healing and restoration for all involved and impacted.”
Smith took several days before apologizing for his actions.
“Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally,” Smith wrote. “I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong…There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
Clearly the Academy felt his apology was not enough.
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