Update 05/24/2022 12:51pm:

Previously, Will Smith slapped Chris Rock during the 2022 Academy Awards, resulting in a viral moment that sparked much backlash against the actor. Netflix reportedly scrapped plans for the sequel to Smith’s film ‘Bright,’ claiming it was unrelated to the Oscars slap. Rumors surfaced noting that Sony put ‘Bad Boys 4’ on hold after the slap. The film was in active development ahead of the Oscars. Now, Sony chairman Tom Rothman has responded to the rumors. 

While speaking to Deadline, Rothman said, “No. That was inaccurate.” He continued saying, “That movie’s been in development and still is. There weren’t any brakes to pump because the car wasn’t moving. That was a very unfortunate thing that happened, and I don’t think it’s really my place to comment, except to say that I’ve known Will Smith for many years, and I know him to be a good person. That was an example of a very good person having a very bad moment, in front of the world. I believe his apology and regret is genuine, and I believe in forgiveness and redemption.”

The producer on the first three installments of Bad Boys— Jerry Bruckheimer, commented on the matter last week, saying, “I can’t answer that question other than to (say), people who are higher up have to make that decision.” Stay tuned for more updates. 

source: Deadline

Original 04/03/2022 11:19am:

Previously, it was reported that Netflix backed away from a film called ‘Fast and Loose,’ involving Will Smith. News of this came following Smith putting hands on Chris Rock during the Oscars ceremony. Now, the next installment in the ‘Bad Boys’ series starring Smith has been put on hold. 

Reports noted ‘Bad Boys 4’ may have been put on hold by Sony following the Oscars incident, following reports of the movie gearing up to be in development. According to The Hollywood Reporter, ‘Bad Boys 4’ was in active development before the Oscars. Will Smith had reportedly received pages of the script ahead of the slap as well. Following the incident, the company allegedly paused development. News of this comes after Will Smith resigned from the Academy. Stay tuned for more updates. 

source: THR

Original 04/02/2022 5:50pm:

Will Smith recently stepped away from the Academy after publicly smacking Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars. Now, it appears Netflix is backing away from a film called ‘Fast and Loose’ that was supposed to be coming out on the platform. 

Along with Netflix, Sony also put some of the Will Smith-involved projects on the back burner. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Sony reportedly halted the start of production for ‘Bad Boys 4’. 

Netflix had a director for ‘Fast and Loose’—David Leitch, but he withdrew from the project a week before Smith slapped Rock. Netflix was on the hunt for a new director but put the project on ice after Smith slapped Rock. The ‘Fast and Loose’ film tells a story of a wealthy head of a criminal organization who has suffered memory loss after being attacked. As he puts together his memory, the kingpin realizes he is also a broke CIA agent. 

Other projects Smith is a part of have been shelved for now, including a sequel to his Netflix film ‘Bright.’ Stay tuned for more updates. 

Source: The Hollywood Reporter