The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has banned Will Smith from attending the Oscars for 10 years. The decision was taken keeping in mind the incident in which he slapped host Chris Rock during the 94th Awards ceremony. The Academy announced the decision this Friday after a meeting was held between the Board of Governors to discuss Smith’s punishment owing to his actions during the awards night.
What was the incident?
During the 94th Academy Awards night, host Chris Rock had cracked a joke on Will Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. He made the comment before presenting an Oscar for the best documentary feature. Rock stated in a humorous manner that Pinkett Smith is getting ready to work on the sequel of G.I. Jane. It seemingly felt like a reference to her shaved head and did not go well with her husband. Following this, Smith walked up the stage and slapped Chris Rock. Not only that but he also warned Rock not to take his wife’s name after having come down from the stage.
Smith’s response to the academy
Will Smith has readily accepted the punishment given to him by the Academy. As published on News 18, the actor said, “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.”
Will Smith’s earlier apology
The Aladdin actor had earlier apologized for his behavior with Chris Rock and the Academy publicly through a social media post. Here is what he wrote on his Instagram handle.
Violence in all its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at last night’s Academic Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. 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.
I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.
I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees, and everyone watching around the world. I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behavior has strained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us.
I am a work in progress.
Sincerely,
Will.
Check out his Instagram post below.
View this post on Instagram
Did you know that Will Smith was also announced the best actor at the 94th Academy Awards for his role in the movie King Richard?
The Academy’s decision
The Academy members had discussed the incident of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock a long time back. It was only a day earlier that they finally announced their decision. As published in The Indian Express, the Academy said, “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.”