Will Smith announced that he has resigned from the The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. This comes after he slapped Chris Rock on stage because the comedian made a “GI Jane” joke about Jada Pinkett Smith who has alopecia.
“I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate,” said Will in a statement according to Page Six.
Will, who picked up the Best Actor in a Leading Role award at the Oscars said his actions were inexcusable. He says he hurt not just Chris but his family as well as his own family. This comes after Will’s mom Carolyn Smith said she was stunned at her son’s behaviour.
“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,” he continued.
RESIGNATION ACCEPTED BY THE ACADEMY
Will expressed that he is heartbroken because he betrayed the trust of the Academy. He also feels that he deprived the nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate.
“I am heartbroken,” he said, ending his statement with a vow to “never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
David Rubin, the president of the Academy accepted the Bad Boys star’s resignation shortly after.
“We will continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18,” he said in a statement.
So, what does the resignation mean?
- The actor will no longer be able to vote for the Oscars
- He can still be nominated and attended the Oscars
- The actor may also keep his Oscar he won on Sunday.