The 2022 Oscars debacle regarding Will Smith slapping Chris Rock will definitely be talked about for some time. Celebrities such as Jim Carrey, Wanda Sykes, Amy Schumer and Zoë Kravitz chided Smith for his violent actions, while others defended him, citing it as an emotional response where he tried to stick up for his wife.

It stirred up debates about toxic masculinity and flawed egos, as well as lines comedians may not be able to cross anymore for fear of being attacked. However, while many discussions are pinning blame on both men, the real fault is with the Academy.

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Ultimately, it's the Academy's show where everything -- especially jokes -- are vetted. In addition to these scripts, rehearsals occur the day before, although reports suggested Rock omitted the joke about Jada's head in his routine. The problem is, the Academy should have set boundaries long before this moment regarding the violation of rules and going off-script, warning offenders of fines or even expulsion. After all, transgressors would be open to lawsuits, especially with physical altercations.

Instituting a more robust system, as well as a security presence near the stage, to avoid such incidents would also have helped, as controlling as it might have seemed. The Academy's ability to exert control was already on display, after all, when reporters were barred from asking questions on the incident after. Instead, they were directed to focus on the awards, with Smith winning Best Actor for King Richard and then proceeding to party as if nothing happened.

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Thus, the Academy can deploy censorship and a firmer handle on the show to ensure the safety of all members. It further ties into why political messages regarding the Ukraine-Russia fiasco were also tempered, reinforcing how the Oscars are curated to try to minimize unnecessary offense and protect its brand on Hollywood's most prestigious night.

Will Smith smacking Chris Rock

Admittedly, it's commendable the Academy decided to review Smith's status and initiate disciplinary action. But this was too reactive and came after the initial impression the Academy condoned assault. This new dawn may require a culture change, with possible mandates to move away from cheap, tasteless jokes. Stricter rules may be viewed as too harsh a paradigm shift, but it'd reduce chances of a similar predicament down the line.

More importantly, the Academy would be able to circumvent bad PR, as opposed to doing damage control for the misdeeds of others. Ultimately, as Smith offers up his own apologies, the Academy has to protect itself and its members. Improvisation can get offensive, and if immediate measures aren't put in place to nip this in the bud moving forward, the Academy will once more look like it has no hold on the platform it provides celebs.

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