Fez – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Friday that Will Smith will be banned from all its events, including the Oscars, for 10 years after he slapped Comedian Chris Rock during last month’s Oscars ceremony.
The academy’s decision comes within a week after Smith’s public resignation from the organization, describing his actions at the 94th Oscars Ceremony to be “shocking, painful, and inexcusable.”
The ban comes following a meeting of the board of governors on Friday as the academy issued a letter condemning Smith’s actions and viewing them to be “unacceptable and harmful.”
The academy went on to recount the most talked-about moment in this year’s awards ceremony, admitting it didn’t handle the situation appropriately during its broadcast which it later apologized for.
“During our telecast, we did not adequately address the situation in the room. For this, we are sorry,” outlined the letter, adding that “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.”
Read also: Will Smith Resigns From Academy Over Oscars Slap
Smith shocked the world on March 27 when he slapped comedian Chris Rock on one of the world’s biggest stages, moments after the comedian had made a joke about his wife’s appearance during the ceremony.
In his resignation statement Smith apologized for his unacceptable behavior, saying that he would “accept any further consequences the board deems appropriate.”
“I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work,” Smith stressed.
In the letter, the academy also expressed gratitude to Chris Rock for “maintaining his composure under extraordinary circumstances.”
Being the winner of the Oscar for best actor this year, the ban means Smith will not attend next year’s ceremony and will not be allowed to present the Oscar for best actress, as it has been traditionally established throughout the years.
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