As controversy around the Oscars and their lack of diversity continues to grow, Will Smith appeared on Good Morning America this morning to discuss his stance on the situation. His wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith, recently called for a boycott of the show from people of color, and some have accused her of only taking the stance because Will was snubbed in this year’s nominations.
While Will acknowledges that could have played a small part in her reaction, he says that for the most part, it’s not about him, and she would have made the video either way. As for whether he’ll be in attendance this year, the seasoned actor says:
“No, my wife’s not going. It would be awkward to show up with Charlize … we’ve discussed it. … We’re part of this community. But at this current time, we’re uncomfortable to stand there and say this is OK.”
Will noted the lack of diversity, and calmly explained that he knows it is hard to get diverse, cultural sampling from 94% Caucasian, 77% male group of Academy members. I think he articulated his points quite well, and definitely got them across. Check out the GMA interview below and let us know your thoughts!
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WATCH: Will Smith opens up for the first time in @ABC News Exclusive about diversity in Hollywood and at the #Oscars https://t.co/8uryo7A03l
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 21, 2016
ALSO ON @GMA: @RobinRoberts interviews Will Smith in an @ABC News Exclusive on diversity in Hollywood, at #Oscars https://t.co/jXgKiUC7vX
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 21, 2016
"We make movies, it's not that serious, except that it plants seeds for dreams." – Will Smith on diversity, #Oscars https://t.co/dSU1MbZ3Qe
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 21, 2016
Will Smith says it is hard to get diverse, cultural sampling from 94% Caucasian, 77% male group of Academy members. https://t.co/7g1Kua73oc
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 21, 2016
Will Smith confirms to @RobinRoberts that he will join his wife @jadapsmith in not attending the #Oscars. https://t.co/uGBKEOQt9A
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 21, 2016
Check out the full interview here.