Hollywood's film academy announced!
The fifth black man to win the movie world's highest individual award for ab actor - Will Smith has been banned from attending the Academy Awards for the next decade after slapping Chris Rock during the 94th Academy Awards ceremony on March 27.
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.
"The board has decided, for a period of 10 - years from April 08, 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."
President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson wrote in a letter, "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 guests, viewers and our Academy family around the world, and we fell short - unprepared for the unprecedented.
Today, the Board of Governors convened a meeting to discuss how best to respond to Will Smith's actions at the Oscars, in addition to accepting his resignation. The board has decided, for a period of 10 years from April 08, 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.
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."
Last week, Smith apologized to Rock, describing his actions at the Oscars as "Shocking, painful and inexcusable," before resigning from the Academy days later.
"I'm resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept my further consequences the Board deems appropriate," said Smith.
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