Will Smith Banned From Oscars Ceremony For Ten Years

Will Smith was banned on Friday from attending the Oscars for the next 10 years, just two weeks after the actor stormed the stage mid-ceremony to slap the comedian Chris Rock.

Smith is also not allowed to attend any other events organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for the next ten years.

The Board’s decision did not mention any ban on future Oscar nominations.

“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,” wrote president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson.

Academy governors met on Friday morning to talk about actions against Smith, with board members Steven Spielberg and Whoopi Goldberg part of those invited to rule on the actor’s fate.

The meeting of top brass from Hollywood’s leading industry body was initially organized to discuss suspending or expelling Smith, but he preemptively resigned from the group.

“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,” said the Academy letter.

It added, “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.”