How Long Is Will Smith Banned From The Oscars?

When Will Smith slapped Chris Rock, it was unprecedented. And the days that followed were even more shocking as Smith released a statement to resign from the Academy altogether, per CNN. The actor said, “I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.”

A week after his resignation, the Academy released its statement finally addressing the situation, per Variety. “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,” the statement read. The Academy’s Board of Governors also shared how they should have confronted the whole thing that night before finally revealing Smith’s repercussions.

Not only did they accept his resignation, but they also banned the actor from Academy events for a decade. “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 statement continued. Again, people had a lot to say about the decision. Some believed it to be too harsh, and others not harsh enough. Still, this means that viewers will not get another slap gate at the Oscars. Well, at least not from Smith.