Nearly two weeks after the event heard 'round the world, the Academy has handed out their punishment for Will Smith's slap. After much speculation, public apologies, and every single person in Hollywood giving their two cents, it's been announced that Will has been banned from the Academy for 10 years, as reported by TMZ.
Now, the King Richard star is addressing the punishment in a new statement.
"The Board [of Governors] 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 academy president and CEO said.
"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."
"We want to express our deep gratitude to Mr. Rock for maintaining his composure under extraordinary circumstances."
“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable," his statement read, as per The Hollywood Reporter.
"I betrayed the trust of the Academy," he continued.
"I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.”
"We will continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18," Academy director David Rubin said.
