The aftermath: what happens to Will Smith’s career now? Since the Oscars slap he faces a 10-year Academy ban, multiple cancelled movies – and sales boost on his memoir

Apr 17 , 2022

Will Smith accepts the award for best actor in a leading role for King Richard onstage during the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, on March 27. Photo: AFP

Smith shocked the world when he slapped comedian Chris Rock for making a GI Joe reference about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith – he didn’t know she had alopecia

Concrete consequences include the possible cancellation of Bad Boys 4 and Netflix’s Fast and Loose – and even fears Smith’s actions could slow diversity progress in Hollywood

Almost three weeks have passed since Will Smith infamously slapped Chris Rock but the incident remains a controversial topic among Hollywood insiders … and the entire world.

Will Smith (R) slaps fellow actor and comedian Chris Rock onstage during the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California in late March. Academy governors have now issued sanctions against Smith. Photo: AFP

It all started when Chris Rock mocked Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, while presenting the best documentary award. “Jada, I love ya. G.I. Jane 2, can’t wait to see it,” the comedian joked, referencing the 1997 film in which actress Demi Moore shaved her head.

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith pose on the red carpet during the Oscars arrivals at the 94th Academy Awards, on March 27. Photo: Reuters

Rock reportedly had no idea that Jada has alopecia, something that she had been openly talking about since 2018. The tasteless remark did not sit well with Will who then marched onstage to hit his former The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air guest star.

Smith, who then won best actor for King Richard later in the ceremony, might have issued a prompt apology. But that’s far from the last repercussions he’s face for his petulant outburst.

Here’s how the slap may affect Will Smith’s career – and the surprising way he may be benefiting from the incident.

Smith has been banned from the Oscars

Will Smith gets teary on stage after winning the Oscar for best actor for King Richard during the 94th annual Academy Awards in March. Photo: EPA-EFE

Taking responsibility for his actions, Smith has resigned from the Academy. This decision means that he will no longer be a voting member but he will still retain his best actor award.

After resigning, the Academy has reached a decision to slap him with a 10-year ban as part of his punishment. However, he is not banned from being nominated or winning in the future – he just has to send a representative to accept the trophy on his behalf.