Will Smith Banned from Oscars for 10 Years

Will Smith has been banned from the Oscars and other Academy events for a decade after the American actor slapped comedian Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards.

In a statement, the Academy said that the 94th Oscars has been overshadowed by the behaviour of Mr Smith on stage. The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Science met took the decision in a virtual meeting on Friday. 

During the 94th Oscars, Will Smith slapped the comedian and host at the award show, Chris Rock after he made a joke about Jada Smith. Mr Smith apologised for his actions and resigned from the Academy. 

The Academy said in a statement that banning Will Smith was aimed at protecting former guests and restoring trust in the Academy. It also thanked Chris Rock for maintaining his composure under extraordinary circumstances. Other than Academy’s actions Sony and Netflix are also pausing their projects with Will Smith.