Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences five days after winning his first Oscar. The King Richard star, 53, was suspended or expelled for punching Chris Rock, a stunning incident that overshadowed his big moment.
In a new statement Friday, Smith again apologized to Rock, calling his actions “painful and inexcusable.” He said he will accept any other consequences the Academy Board deems appropriate, including having his Oscar stripped.
Will Smith poses with his Oscar at Vanity Fair’s Oscar party after meeting Chris Rock. (Photo: Reuters)
“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards were shocking, painful and inexcusable. The list of those I’ve hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, everyone present and the global audience back home,” Smith told Yahoo Entertainment through his rep.
“I betrayed the academy’s trust. I deprived other nominees and winners of the opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am devastated. I want to bring the focus back to those who deserve recognition for their accomplishments and allow that to happen. “Academy, to come back to the incredible work they do to support creativity and artistry in film,” he continues.
“As such, I resign my membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and will accept any further consequences that the board deems appropriate,” concludes Smith. “Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
Smith added that he “responded directly to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing” and will “fully accept any consequences for my conduct.”
On Tuesday, Smith initiated a virtual six-minute call with Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson to apologize for the incident. The Academy Board of Directors met the next day to initiate disciplinary proceedings. The suspension and expulsion announced by the organization are on the table.
The story goes on
The Academy Board will meet on April 15 to determine further consequences.
MORE: Chris Rock dismisses viewer abuse of Will Smith at his Boston show