The American actor Will Smith will no longer be able to participate in the Oscar ceremonies for the next 10 years.
The decision was made this Friday after several hours of discussions between the leaders of the Academy.
Will Smith will be able to keep the trophy he won on March 27, 2022. He also remains eligible to be nominated and win other awards in the future, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said in a letter sent to its members on Friday.
Academy President and CEO Dawn Hudson, Chairman David Rubin and producer Will Packer acknowledged that they had not “adequately addressed the situation in the room” and apologized for “failing – not being prepared for this unprecedented situation.” They also commended comedian Chris Rock’s handling of the situation by keeping “his cool under extraordinary circumstances”. Thanks were also given to the hosts, nominees, presenters and winners of the evening for their composure and grace during our show.
The principal concerned had not taken long to react to the decision of the board of the academy. “I accept and respect the decision of the Academy,” said Will Smith through his spokesperson.
Here is the full content of the letter signed by the CEO and the president of the academy respectively Dawn Hudson and David Rubin:
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.
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.
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.
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.
