“The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show,” the statement said. “We have officially begun a formal review of the incident and will review further actions and consequences consistent with our bylaws, standards of conduct and California law.”
CNN learned earlier Monday that the academy’s leadership is “strongly considering” removing Smith from the Oscars show following the incident, according to a source close to the situation.
“The Academy leadership strongly considered removing Will Smith from yesterday’s broadcast following the incident. Discussions immediately ensued, but Academy decision makers were sitting in various places in the Dolby Theater and were unable to mobilize to make a decision before he was awarded Best Actor,” the source said.
Smith apologized to the Academy and his fellow nominees during his acceptance speech for best actor.
After the ceremony, the Academy Awards tweeted a brief statement regarding the onstage incident, which read: “The Academy does not condone violence of any kind. Tonight we are delighted to celebrate our 94th Oscar winners, who deserve this moment of recognition from their peers and film lovers around the world.”
At least a dozen members of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, the organization behind the Oscars, met virtually Monday morning to discuss a response to Smith’s swipe at Rock, according to two sources with knowledge of the meeting.
The meeting was described as “heated” and “divided.” According to the sources, there was no agreement on how to proceed.
The dozen members who met at their own request and are described as influential and recognizable members of the academy, including actors and directors. The group has no disciplinary powers, but they are considered of enough high profile that the Academy’s Board of Governors could be swayed in their response.
Some participants in the call said the academy mishandled the incident with its initial tweet. Others believe the situation has been handled properly and no further steps should be taken, according to the sources who spoke to CNN.
It’s unclear if the academy’s leadership is planning a meeting to discuss the unprecedented situation. CNN has contacted the Academy for further comment.
The Board of Directors of the Academy has the power to discipline members violating its Code of Conduct by voting on suspension or expulsion from the Academy.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Rock chose not to press charges against Smith over the onstage altercation.
CNN has reached out to Smith’s rep for comment.
There are more than 9,000 voting members of the Academy, made up of Hollywood artists and film executives.