Will Smith banned from Oscars for 10 years over Chris Rock slap

The actor will not be able to attend the ceremonies or any other events held by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for the next decade

The board of Hollywood’s top film group, however, did not decide to revoke Smith’s best actor Oscar for King Richard

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US actor Will Smith accepts the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for “King Richard” during the Oscars in Hollywood in March. Photo: AFP

Published: 3:17am, 9 Apr 2022Updated: 1:11pm, 9 Apr 2022

Hollywood’s film academy on Friday banned Will Smith from attending the Oscars for 10 years after the best actor winner slapped presenter Chris Rock on stage at the Academy Awards ceremony 12 days ago, though it did not decide to revoke Smith’s best actor prize.

The board of governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences took the action at a meeting on Friday, a week after Smith had 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,” academy President David Rubin and Chief Executive Dawn Hudson said in a statement.

“However, those moments were overshadowed by the unacceptable and harmful behaviour we saw Mr Smith exhibit on stage.”

A passer-by takes a photo of a mural in Berlin artist Jesus Cruz Artiles, aka Eme Freethinker, depicting actor Will Smith slapping presenter Chris Rock in the face during the incident at the Oscars. Photo: EPA-EFE

In a statement, Smith said, “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.” The actor has issued statements apologising to Rock, the Oscars producers, nominees and viewers.