After slapping Chris Rock onstage during the 94th Academy Awards, Will Smith has been banned from the Oscars for ten years.
But the actor will be allowed to keep his award for Best Actor, reports reveal.
The Academy described Smith’s behavior as ‘unacceptable’ and ‘harmful,’ adding it ‘overshadowed’ the entire evening.
“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 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.
“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.”
In a statement to Deadline, Smith said: “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.”
The actor had already resigned from the Academy but his wife Jada will still be allowed to go to in-person events.
Smith’s slap divided Hollywood and the public, with many insisting the actor should be stripped of his Oscar while others mocked and dismissed it on social media.
Rock has stayed silent on the issue, speaking out only to say that he was ‘processing’ the incident.
The organization’s board of governors will determine whether Smith will be stripped of his Best Actor Oscar after slapping Rock.
Speaking to The Sun, a source said: “The decision was made earlier this week to expedite the hearing in the wake of Will’s resignation, and during that call it was clear that the decision would go to the wire.
“The general consensus is that it would be madness and rank hypocrisy to take such a stand now.
“But, as we all know, Hollywood is a law unto itself, frankly.”
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section and SHARE this story with your friends and family!