Will Smith resigns from Academy membership after slapping Chris Rock at Oscars 2022
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Previously, Will Smith issued an apology to the Academy as well as comedian Chris Rock over the incident.
Days after Hollywood star Will Smith created headlines as he slapped Chris Rock on stage during the Oscar 2022 ceremony, the actor has announced that he has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
"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," Smith`s publicist told news agencies.
"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," he said.
Smith, added that he was "heartbroken" over the incident and "betrayed the trust of the Academy."
"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," Smith stated."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," he added.
Smith had previously apologized to the academy and to Rock.
A few minutes after the incident, Smith was announced Best Actor at the Oscars.
Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock onstage after he got miffed at the latter's joke directed at his wife Jada Pinkett Smith. The 94th Academy Awards took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday where Smith won his maiden Oscar for 'King Richard'.