By It appears the troubles of embattled Hollywood star, Will Smith have doubled after he broke the internet for slapping comedian Chris Rock who made jokes about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith during the live telecast of the 94th Oscars award ceremony.
Shortly after the incident, which had already sparked reactions around the world, Smith won the most coveted prize of the night, Best Actor, for his role in the biopic, King Richard.
Though Smith had tendered a public apology for his action and resigned from the Academy, the Board of Governors for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences, in an unexpected move, voted to ban the actor from attending all Academy events, including the Oscars for 10 years.
A statement from the Academy on Friday read in part, “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 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.”
The Academy also expressed its deep gratitude to Chris 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,” it added.
