The Academy Awards are designed to celebrate the pinnacle of cinematic achievement, years of dedication culminating in a gold-plated statuette. However, for a select group of Hollywood figures, according to a parade.com report, the Dolby Theatre doors remain firmly shut.
As the 98th Academy Awards take place on March 15, hosted by Conan O’Brien, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) continues to uphold strict standards of conduct. Over the years, several high-profile members have been expelled or banned, ranging from white-collar offenders to those convicted of serious crimes.
Here are the names notably absent from the guest list this year.
Following the rise of the #MeToo movement, the Academy radically overhauled its code of ethics. This led to the expulsion of several heavyweights whose past actions were deemed “repugnant” to the industry’s values.
Harvey Weinstein (Expelled 2017): The catalyst for the Academy’s modern reform. Following allegations of sexual misconduct from over 80 women, the producer was stripped of his membership and later convicted of sex crimes in New York and Los Angeles.
Bill Cosby & Roman Polanski (Expelled 2018): Both men were removed simultaneously after the Academy updated its standards. Cosby was expelled following his 2018 conviction, while Polanski, who won an Oscar in 2003 while a fugitive, was finally removed decades after fleeing the US to avoid sentencing for sexual offences involving a minor.
Adam Kimmel (Expelled 2021): The cinematographer was removed after his history as a registered sex offender came to light, highlighting a previous oversight in the Academy’s vetting process.
Carmine Caridi (Expelled 2004): Known for his roles in The Godfather sequels, Caridi holds the dubious honour of being the first member ever expelled. He was found to have leaked Oscar “screeners” (preview copies of films) to an unauthorised person, leading to an FBI investigation and lawsuits from major studios like Columbia Pictures and Warner Bros.
Will Smith (Banned 2022–2032): In perhaps the most famous incident in recent televised history, Will Smith was banned for a decade after striking presenter Chris Rock on stage during the 94th Academy Awards. While Smith resigned from the Academy shortly after the incident, the board formalised a 10-year prohibition, meaning he remains unwelcome until 2032.
