"I betrayed the trust of the academy."
Will Smith has resigned from Hollywood’s Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after he slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022 ceremony.
He issued a statement on the matter, adding that he would accept “any further consequences” the organisation imposed.
In the statement, Will said: “I have directly responded to the academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct.
“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.
“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.
“So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and will accept any further consequences the board deems appropriate.
“Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
Will Smith’s resignation means he loses his voting rights, but he can still be nominated for an Oscar and win an award for any upcoming performances.
The academy said it had accepted the actor’s resignation and will “continue to move forward” disciplinary proceedings against him for violating its standards of conduct.
The matter is set to be discussed at the board’s next meeting on April 18, 2022, which could lead to additional sanctions.
The incident was the main talking point at the 2022 Oscars.
Chris Rock took to the stage to present ‘Best Documentary’.
He then made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith and her shaved head which is a result of hairloss condition alopecia.
Chris said:
“Jada, I love ya. GI Jane 2, I can’t wait to see it!”
As the comedian delivered the joke, Jada was seen rolling her eyes.
Will initially appeared to be laughing before walking onto the stage and slapping Chris before returning to his seat and demanding that Chris keep Jada’s name “out of his f*****g mouth”.
Will went on to win ‘Best Actor’ for playing the father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams in King Richard.
He later issued a public apology to Chris, stating that his behaviour was “unacceptable and inexcusable”.
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