Will Smith Opens Up About 10 Year Oscars Ban

Photo By Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Will Smith, the acclaimed actor and musician, has recently addressed his 10-year ban from the Academy Awards, a consequence of his on-stage altercation with comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 ceremony. In a candid interview, Smith reflected on the incident and its aftermath, emphasizing his commitment to personal growth.

Reflecting on the Past

In March 2022, during the 94th Academy Awards, Smith approached the stage and slapped presenter Chris Rock in response to a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. This act led the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to ban Smith from attending the Oscars and other related events for a decade. At the time, Smith publicly accepted the decision, stating, “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.”

A Journey Toward Self-Improvement

Now, three years into the ban, Smith is channeling his experiences into creative endeavors. He is set to release his first album in two decades, titled “Based on a True Story.” The project features collaborations with artists like Teyana Taylor, Jaden Smith, and Jazzy Jeff. Reflecting on the themes of the album, Smith remarked, “I’m striving to be the best human I can be.”

The album delves into Smith’s introspection following the Oscars incident, exploring themes of redemption and personal growth. He draws parallels between his journey and the Japanese art of kintsugi, which involves repairing broken pottery with gold, highlighting the beauty in imperfections. Smith explained, “I want to show that you can piece yourself back together beautifully.”

Looking Ahead

Despite the professional setbacks following the incident, including paused film projects, Smith remains optimistic about his future in the entertainment industry. He is planning a tour to promote his new music and has several film projects in pre-production. Smith believes this marks the beginning of his most creative period, stating, “This is the start of a new chapter for me.”

As Smith continues to navigate the consequences of his actions, he remains focused on self-improvement and reconnecting with his audience through his art. His upcoming album and projects signify his dedication to moving forward and embracing the lessons learned from the past.