Hollywood actor Will Smith has been banned from the Oscars for 10 years as punishment for slapping Chris Rock at the 94th awards show.

A tweet by Spectator Index affirmed his ban on the evening of April 8, after a deliberation of the Board of Governors for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences.

In the Academy’s statement, according to Variety, Will’s “unacceptable and harmful behaviour” overshadowed what was meant to be “a celebration of the many individuals in our community who did incredible work this past year”.

It further stated that “Mr Smith shall not be permitted to attend any Academy events or programs, in person or virtually, including but not limited to the Academy Awards.”

The Oscars Academy appreciated “Mr Rock for maintaining his composure under extraordinary circumstances,” and also thanked the “hosts, nominees, presenters and winners for their poise and grace during our telecast.”

Although Will had apologised for hitting Chris following the comedian’s “G.I. Jane” joke about his wife, Jada, the Oscars Academy slammed the ban on the American actor.

Will, who had already resigned from the Academy last week, replied soon after in a statement, saying “I accept and respect the Academy’s decision.”

Before the ban, Will had officially resigned from the Oscars’ Academy, to show remorse. He had also expressed willingness to accept any punitive measures given by the Academy.

“I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct.

“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” the Hollywood actor said in a statement.

There had been calls from industry insiders and moviegoers for Will’s Oscar to be taken back, which the Oscars have no legal authority to claim.

To compare, convicted criminals Harvey Weinstein and director Roman Polanski still hold their Oscars following their expulsions from the Academy.