After Will Smith slapped Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards (on March 27, 2022), he faced significant professional and personal consequences, including:
π Academy-Related Consequences
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Banned from the Oscars for 10 years
β The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences banned Smith from attending any Academy-related events (including the Oscars) until 2032. -
Resigned from the Academy
β Smith voluntarily resigned from the Academy before the ban was announced, expressing regret for his actions.
π¬ Film and TV Project Fallout
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"Bad Boys 4" was paused
β Production on Bad Boys 4 was reportedly halted, but it eventually resumed in 2023. -
"Fast and Loose" (Netflix) put on hold
β Netflix halted the development of Fast and Loose, a film in which Smith was set to star. -
Apple's "Emancipation" release delayed
β Though Apple ultimately released Emancipation in December 2022, the filmβs promotion was low-key due to the controversy.
πΌ Business and Brand Consequences
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Creative Artists Agency (CAA) almost dropped him
β Reports suggested CAA considered dropping Smith as a client but ultimately retained him. -
Lost brand partnerships
β Smithβs public image took a hit, causing some brands to distance themselves.
π Awards and Recognition
- While Smith kept his Best Actor Oscar for King Richard (which he won the same night as the slap), his chances for future nominations may be affected due to the Academy ban.
π¬ Personal and Social Fallout
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Strained relationships
β His relationships with fellow actors and industry insiders, including Chris Rock, were impacted.
β Chris Rock addressed the incident in his Netflix special Selective Outrage in 2023. -
Public perception decline
β Smith's previously positive image as a likable, family-friendly star took a major hit.
β Current Status
Smith has slowly been making a comeback, with Bad Boys 4 set for release in June 2024 and ongoing public appearances.