Blacklisted! 8 Stars Who Have Been Banned from Awards Shows

The Dark Side of Hollywood: Celebrities Banned From Awards Shows Due to Controversies

It is no secret that the entertainment industry has its share of scandals and controversies. Over the years, several high-profile celebrities have faced bans from awards shows due to their actions or behaviors that fell short of ethical standards. This article delves into eight such cases, highlighting the consequences faced by these stars for their misconduct.

Bill Cosby: A Lifetime Ban From Awards Shows

The story of Bill Cosby’s ban from award shows began in 2017 when his sexual assault conviction led to a series of consequences. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences severed ties with him “in accordance with the organization’s Standards of Conduct.” In a statement, they emphasized their commitment to ethical standards, stating that members should uphold the Academy’s values of respect for human dignity.

Additionally, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts also revoked two of Cosby’s achievement awards: the 1998 Kennedy Center Honors and the 2009 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Their decision was based on his recent criminal conviction, which overshadowed the career accomplishments these distinctions were meant to recognize.

Harvey Weinstein: Falling From Grace

In a similar vein, Harvey Weinstein’s rise and fall are well-documented in Hollywood history. His prominence at award shows like the Academy Awards came to an abrupt end after multiple sexual harassment and rape allegations emerged against him in 2017. In response, the Academy expelled him from its group, citing his “repugnant, abhorrent” conduct as antithetical to the high standards of the organization.

Following a Board of Governors meeting, Weinstein was immediately dismissed, becoming the second member to be ousted from the group. The Academy’s statement underscored their commitment to separating themselves from someone who does not merit respect and sending a message about ending willful ignorance and shameful complicity in sexually predatory behavior and workplace harassment.

Kanye West: Online Behavior Leads To Grammy Ban

Even in today’s digital age, online behavior can have severe consequences. Kanye West’s diagnosis of autism in February 2025 did not spare him from scrutiny when he was banned from performing at the Grammy Awards 2022 due to his “concerning online behavior.” A representative for Kanye West confirmed that he received a call before his scheduled appearance, informing him he had been pulled from the lineup.

Morgan Wallen: Disgraced by Racial Slurs

Country music star Morgan Wallen faced backlash in 2021 when a video surfaced of him using a racial slur. As a result, not only did he miss out on attending and performing at the Academy of Country Music Awards and CMA Awards that year, but he was also banned from the ACM Awards in May 2025. The decision by the Country Music Association was based on his conduct, making it the first time anyone had been disqualified for such behavior.

Noel Clarke: Sexual Harassment Allegations

British actor Noel Clarke faced legal battles after being accused of sexual harassment and bullying. He initially filed a libel case against The Guardian but dropped all other defendants, except for the publication itself, in September 2025. Clarke’s suspension by BAFTA was pending until further notice amid these accusations.

Roman Polanski: A 20-Year Ban

Director Roman Polanski faced a lifetime ban from the Oscars after his appearance at the 1993 ceremony, where he presented an award while ignoring the script. His comments about Tibet and China’s Communist Party leadership led to this severe consequence. Although Polanski sued for reinstatement in 2019, he lost his bid to be re-admitted as a member in 2025.

Will Smith: The Slap Heard Round the World

The 2022 Oscars ceremony is etched in memory due to Will Smith’s shocking actions. His slap on Chris Rock during the broadcast for making a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair sparked outrage and led to his 10-year ban from all Academy events by the Board of Governors. The decision reflected their commitment to protecting performers’ safety, restoring trust in the Academy, and initiating a time of healing.

In conclusion, these cases illustrate how ethical misconduct can have long-lasting consequences for celebrities in the entertainment industry. As the industry continues to grapple with issues of respect, ethics, and accountability, it is crucial that such incidents serve as lessons for all involved.