Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after his controversial on-stage slap at the Oscars.
In a statement released on Friday evening (1 April) he announced his decision to leave the organisation, while also apologising for his “shocking, painful, and inexcusable” actions at the ceremony on Monday (28 March).
The 53-year-old Hollywood actor slapped comedian and awards host Chris Rock on-stage in a shocking celebrity clash that has since sent shockwaves around the world.
The incident began when comedian Chris joked about Jada Pinkett Smith’s buzzcut, quipping: “Jada, can’t wait for GI Jane 2.”
Will — who went on to win Best Actor later in the evening — walked up to the stage and hit the presenter, before returning to his seat and yelling: “Keep my wife’s name out of your f****** mouth.”
(Image: Rob Latour/REX/Shutterstock)
Jada shaves her hair as she suffers from alopecia.
His latest statement of apology on Friday read: “I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable.”
“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy.”
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.”
“So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.”
The Academy had earlier this week launched an investigation into what happened, and announced that they had “initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct”.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
