Will Smith Responds to 10-Year Oscars Ban: “I’m Looking to Be the Best Human I Can Possibly Be”

In a recent interview, Will Smith addressed the ongoing 10-year ban he received from the Academy Awards following his controversial altercation with Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars. When asked by the Associated Press whether he planned to appeal the ban or simply accept the consequences, Smith responded thoughtfully.

“I am looking to be the best human I can possibly be, and I’m gonna take what I get with that,” Smith said, emphasizing his focus on personal growth rather than pursuing any legal battles or attempts to overturn the decision.

The ban, which prevents Smith from attending any Academy events—including the Oscars—stems from his actions that night when he slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage in response to a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Since then, the actor has publicly apologized and expressed regret, but this marks his first public acknowledgment of the ban’s long-term impact on his career.

For now, it seems Smith is choosing to focus on moving forward and bettering himself both personally and professionally, letting go of any disputes over the past.