“The Board of Governors today began disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s standards of conduct, including improper physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior and endangering the integrity of the Academy,” the organization behind the Oscars said in a statement.
The statement also alleges that Smith was asked to leave the ceremony after the incident “and refused.” The academy said it recognizes “that we could have handled the situation differently”.
“Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in person and on television. Mr. Rock, we apologize for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in this moment. ‘ the statement added. “We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what happened during a celebratory event.”
Another board meeting is scheduled to take place on April 18, at which time “the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion or other sanctions as permitted by the statutes and standards of conduct,” the statement said.
“In accordance with the Academy’s standards of conduct and California law, Mr. Smith will be given a minimum of 15 days’ notice of his violations and sanctions and an opportunity to be heard first by written response. “, the statement said.
CNN has reached out to Smith’s rep for comment.
Still talk of the town
The academy’s strong statement comes as talk of the slap, which was heard around the world, showed no signs of cooling.
Rock has remained publicly silent on the incident, so all eyes are on the start of his comedy tour, which begins Wednesday night in Boston. Comedians Wanda Sykes and Amy Schumer, two of the three hosts on Sunday night, also spoke out in strong words of support for Rock on Wednesday, as did Rock’s brother. Meanwhile, Smith has kept a low profile on social media since his lengthy apology on Mondays.
“I was out of line and I was wrong,” he wrote in part. “I’m embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. In a world of love and kindness there is no place for violence.”
But Smith’s apology was not enough to quell the reaction of academy leaders, who said in a letter to members on Wednesday that they were “upset and outraged.”
This was echoed by many critics at the Academy for its handling of the Sunday night incident.
Sykes told Ellen DeGeneres on her talk show appearance that she felt Smith should have been escorted.
“So they could have him stay in this room and enjoy the rest of the show and accept his award, I said, ‘How gross is that? That’s just the wrong message,'” she said.