The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Science announced in a statement on Thursday that Will Smith will receive punitive and disciplinary actions in the form of Oscar hosting duties next year, for slapping Chris Rock on the Oscars stage earlier this year.
The Academy President said, “The Board has decided, instead of levying a ban, monetary fine, or a public apology, nothing would be a better way to hold Mr Smith accountable than handing him the difficult task of hosting the Oscars ceremony next year. Should Mr Smith accept the duties, we will make sure to guarantee the safety for our performers and guests and support Mr Smith with any help and resources we can provide. We hope Mr Smith will step into the shoes of an Oscar host, be empathetic to the duties of hosts and comedians, learn from the experience, and avoid future scandals from occurring live on stage.”
The decision to hand hosting duties to Mr. Smith after the controversy came as a surprise. Although there are rumours that the Academy was not able to find anyone to host as most comedians and actors declined the offer.
Ricky Gervais, showed his support for the Academy’s decision, and tweeted, “Great decision. Hollywood treats comedians as if they’re the help. Let’s go back to actors hosting it to show how difficult it really is. Anyone remember James Franco and Anne Hathaway?”
Smith quickly issued a statement on Friday that read: “I accept and respect the academy’s decision. I look forward to hosting next year. My good friend Kevin Hart has already reached out to help me and write Oscars-friendly jokes for me.”
Chris Rock is yet to comment on the Academy’s decision, although his brother, Tony Rock, has recently hit the stage to vent about the slapping debacle claiming – “If you walk your ass up here, you ain’t nominated for s–t but these motherf–king hands!"
