The New York post reports that Hollywood actor, Will Smith may be asked to return his 2022 Oscar Award for Best Actor following his live physical assault on host, Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards.
It was reported earlier that Rock, who is also a comedian, cracked a joke mocking Jada Pinkett-Smith over using the movie G.I Jane by referencing her bald head.
Will Smith and his wife initially laughed it off, but when Rock re-enforced the joke, Smith got up on the stage and gave him a hot slap on the face.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has strict guidelines in its code of conduct.
According to The NY post, a top Hollywood source said: “It’s basically assault. Everyone was just so shocked in the room, it was so uncomfortable.”
“I think Will would not want to give his Oscar back, but who knows what will happen now.”
The publication also said it has reached out to the Academy over the matter.
The Academy, in its code of conduct released 2017 amid the sexual misconduct scandal that hit the industry at the time, emphasized the importance of “upholding the Academy’s values.”
