Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures after he slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars over a mild joke.
Smith released a statement just a few minutes ago describing his actions as “shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” and said he is “heartbroken.”
The Hollywood Reporter shared the full statement online.
“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,” Smith said. “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.”
The Academy condemned Smith’s actions, claims they tried to get him to leave but he refused, and say that police were alerted about the assault.
They are going to move ahead with plans for disciplinary proceedings.
“We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,” the Academy said in a statement. “We will continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18.”
This doesn’t mean he can’t be nominated again, but it does mean he’s no longer able to vote for Oscars. His resignation has no bearing on whether or not he’ll be allowed to attend future award ceremonies. That is a question still to be resolved by the disciplinary review.
This story may be updated.