KEY POINTS:
- Will Smith resigns from the Academy, stating that he is willing to endure more repercussions.
- He stepped up onstage and slapped comedian Chris Rock, who made a joke about Smith’s wife’s hair, before accepting his Best Actor Oscar for his work in the film King Richard.
- Smith said in a statement, “I have immediately answered to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notification, and I will fully accept any and all repercussions for my actions.” “
- My behaviour at the 94th Academy Awards was shocking, unpleasant, and unforgivable.
Following his onstage outburst at the Oscars, actor Will Smith has reportedly renounced his membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He stepped up onstage and slapped comedian Chris Rock, who made a joke about Smith’s wife’s hair, before accepting his Best Actor Oscar for his work in the film King Richard.
Smith said in a statement, “I have immediately answered to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notification, and I will fully accept any and all repercussions for my actions.” “My behaviour at the 94th Academy Awards was shocking, unpleasant, and unforgivable. Chris, his family, many of my personal friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home are among those I have injured.”
The statement goes on to say, “I betrayed the Academy’s confidence. I took away the opportunity for other nominees and winners to celebrate and be recognised for their outstanding efforts. I’m devastated. I want to refocus attention on those who deserve it for their accomplishments, allowing the Academy to focus on the tremendous work it does to foster filmmaking innovation and artistry.”
Smith wrote that he would accept any additional sanctions imposed by the Board of Governors. The Academy announced earlier this week that it will commence disciplinary processes, which could include suspension or expulsion.
“Change takes time,” he added, “and I am dedicated to doing the work necessary to guarantee that violence never again triumphs over reason.”
