Netflix has reportedly put a Will Smith project on the back burner in light of the actor slapping Chris Rock at this year’s Oscars.
Even if you didn’t watch the Oscars this year, you know exactly what happened there – Will Smith slapped Chris Rock following the latter’s joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s alopecia. Amidst the controversy following the incident, Netflix has decided to put a Will Smith project on the back burner.
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix has put plans for the Will Smith movie Fast And Loose on hold. The once-favoured movie – due to Smith’s running for Best Actor at this year’s Oscars – has been moved down Netflix’s list following the Oscars.
This also comes after the project’s director David Leitch pulled out of Fast and Loose only a week before the Oscars to work on Universal Studios’ Fall Guy.
This is not the only Will Smith project that seems to be getting such treatment. Prior to the Oscars, Smith was slated to appear in Bad Boys 4. Sony pictures, however, has now said that the project will be put on hold.
Yesterday, with discussions around the slap still dominating cycles, Will Smith announced that he would resign from the academy.
In a statement to People, Smith said: “I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken.
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“I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.” he said, before tendering in his resignation.
“So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.” he concluded.
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