Will Smith Wants Oscar Ban Reconsidered After Chris Rock Slap

Will Smith is reportedly hoping the Academy will reconsider his 10-year Oscars ban following his infamous confrontation with Chris Rock at the 2022 ceremony.

A source cited by the National Enquirer claims Smith has made repeated efforts to move past the incident but remains frustrated that Rock has not accepted his apologies.

“Will has repeatedly apologized to Chris and got absolutely nothing in return, which is very triggering for him,” the source says. “He can’t stand the fact that Chris is refusing to accept his apology and move on from this.”

The source also claims Smith finds it difficult that he cannot control how Rock feels about what happened.

“It’s incredibly hard for him to have zero control over a situation, that is something he absolutely hates,” the source says.

The Academy banned Smith from attending its events for 10 years after he walked onto the stage and slapped Rock during the March 27, 2022, Oscars ceremony.

The incident followed a joke Rock made about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head. Pinkett Smith has alopecia, while Rock has said he did not know about her condition when he made the “G.I. Jane” reference.

According to the latest report, Smith would like the Academy to reconsider its punishment.

“Yes, he was wrong to hit Chris, but there was context to his actions,” the source says.

However, Rock’s continued anger could make a change to the Oscar ban more difficult. Another source previously described the comedian as still upset over the incident and highlighted his close relationship with the Academy.

“Another obstacle is that Chris Rock is rightfully still very upset about the incident, and he’s a beloved Academy insider.”

The same source suggested that a genuine reconciliation between the two entertainers could help create an opportunity for the Academy to reconsider its decision.

“The moment everybody is waiting for is for Chris and Will to publicly and genuinely bury the hatchet – that’s going to give the Academy the confidence to revisit their decision to ban Will from the Oscars for 10 years.”

The Academy announced Smith’s ban on April 8, 2022. It said the decision was aimed at protecting performers and guests, rebuilding trust and allowing a period of healing following the incident.

The latest source claims Smith has not publicly blamed Rock for the continued dispute but believes the comedian is intentionally keeping the matter alive.

“And the longer this goes on, the more angry and bitter Will gets,” the source says.

The claims about Smith’s feelings and his reported efforts to have the Oscar ban reconsidered have not been independently confirmed.

Do you think the Academy should reconsider Will Smith’s 10-year Oscars ban?