The controversy for the gesture made by Will Smith against Chris Rock during the night of the Oscars has not yet died down.
The Academy met to assess any sanctions and banned the American actor from participating in any event they organize in the next 10 years: it is not just the next Oscars ceremonies, but any event designed by the Academy, both in presence, both in virtual form.
The decision came following a meeting where members of the Academy and governors examined the case of Will Smith, the protagonist of a situation never occurred in the history of the Oscars. The actor quickly commented in a statement that he accepts and respects the decision.
Chris Rock
The Academy also expressed deep gratitude to Chris Rock for maintaining his composure in such an extraordinary situation.
The slap
It should be remembered that Will Smith had slapped Chris Rock in the face following the comedian’s (however unpleasant) joke about the possibility that Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett, was preparing to shoot the sequel to “Private Jane.” A few minutes after that terrible moment, the actor had raised the statuette for best actor (won for “A Winning Family – King Richard”), delivering a speech full of rhetoric.
Previous resignations
Will Smith had filed his resignation from the Academy of Oscars about a week ago, adding that he would accept “any further consequences the board deems appropriate.” “The list of those I have offended is long and includes Chris, the his family, many of my friends and loved ones, everyone in attendance and the audience at home, ”said Smith, adding that he“ betrayed the trust of the Academy. I took away from the other candidates and winners the opportunity to celebrate and be serenely celebrated for their work. I have a broken heart”. The actor said he wanted to “bring attention back to those who deserve it for their achievements.” And he concluded that “change takes time and I commit myself to work to never allow violence to take over reason again”.