In a statement on Friday afternoon, actor Will Smith revealed he intends to resign from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
In addition, he will “fully accept any and all consequences” for his conduct and once again apologized to comedian Chris Rock amongst others, saying: ‘the list of those I have hurt is long’.
As the world knows, at last Sunday’s 94th Oscars ceremony Smith walked up on the stage and physically slapped presenter Chris Rock along with verbally chastising him after Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife.
By mid-week, The Academy said Smith was asked to leave through his publicist and he refused. They also indicated an investigation was underway into the incident and Smith could face disciplinary action at a meeting just after the upcoming Easter holiday weekend.
On Friday morning, Oscars producer Will Packer appeared on “Good Morning America” and said after the police arrived on the scene not only did Rock decline to press charges but also declined to have Smith forcibly removed.
Now Smith has released this statement which reads as follows:
“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. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken.
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. Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
Despite the resignation, the Academy will still hold its disciplinary meeting as previously scheduled. The Board of Governors aren’t likely to withdraw his Best Actor win, but could reprimand Smith by barring him from appearing at future Oscar ceremonies and potentially he may no longer be eligible to win any Oscars.
Smith also faces potential punishment from his union SAG-AFTRA.
Source: The Playlist
