Will Smith Reacts To His 10 Year Academy Ban & Thanks Chris Rock For ‘Maintaining His Composure’ In This Message

Will Smith has finally reacted to the Academy’s decision to ban him from their events for a 10 year period as a result of slapping Chris Rock on the Oscar Awards 2022 night.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences took to the press on Friday April 8, and made the announcement that Will has been banned from all of the organization’s events for 10 years for slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.

“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 said Friday.

Nevertheless, the academy will still allow Will Smith will to keep the Oscar he won this year for his role in “King Richard.”

Will Smith’s response came minutes after the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that it was banning him from all of the organization’s events for 10 years for slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.

He stated

“I accept and respect the Academy’s decision”

He further continued… “We want to express our deep gratitude to Mr. Rock for maintaining his composure under extraordinary circumstances. We also want to thank our hosts, nominees, presenters and winners for their poise and grace during our telecast.”

Last week, Smith announced he was resigning from the Academy, meaning he could not vote but was still able to be nominated and attend the awards show.