Oscars Reaction to Will Smith’s Slap: “Inadequate,” Academy President Admits

Although the Academy released a statement condemning Smith’s actions soon after the telecast was over, they were more forceful in their language and sent a letter to members days after. banned Smith for 10 years. Yang’s message is notable because it seems to acknowledge what many professionals and casual observers had been wondering about in the hours, days, and months that followed the shocking event.

Smith was allowed to remain in his seat, accept his Oscar and then attack Rock on stage while the rest of the world watched in amazement.

It was a horrible precedent that Smith wasn’t allowed to remain

A source said that Smith was removed from the event “seriously considered” by Entertainment Weekly one day after the event. ISmith was probably only allowed to remain because he is one of the most prominent stars in Hollywood. They would have been expelled if Rock had attacked another attendee.

Although we can’t read between the lines here, Yang’s comment that her organization responded “inadequately” to Yang’s question surely suggests that the Academy has acknowledged wrongdoing and allowed the actor to remain.

The Oscar luncheon was attended by the majority of the nominees for this year, including Tom Cruise (a producer of Best Picture nominee Top Gun, Maverick), Steven Spielberg, Cate Blanchett, Michelle Yeoh, Best Actress Tar), Cate Blanchett, Cate Blanchett, Michelle Yeoh, Angela Bassett, Best Supporting Actress Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), Brendan Fraser, Best Actor, The Whale, and Colin Farrell (Best Actor The Bansheeshees of Inisherin)

One year after the Academy’s controversial decision not to allow a few awards to be broadcast live, Yang also received cheers when she mentioned that all the trophies for this year will be given out live and reminded nominees about the “45 second rule.” The acceptance speeches are limited to 45 seconds. Yang stated, “Keep it short and sweet and to the point.