Will Smith resigned from the Academy after an incident in which he slapped comedian Chris Rock.
The actor was facing disciplinary action such as expulsion or possible suspension from the academy.
Instead, he chose to resign. In a statement, Smith called his actions “shocking, distressing and unforgivable” and said he would accept any “other consequences” that the Academy may still decide.
“The list of people I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dearest friends and loved ones, and all present and global audiences at home,” Smith’s statement continued.
“You betrayed the Academy’s trust. You denied the other nominees and winners the opportunity to celebrate and celebrate their exceptional work. It burned my heart.”
Read the actor’s resignation statement in full here.
Smith’s resignation comes after the actor walked on stage during the Academy Awards and hit rock after comedian He made a joke about Smith’s wife and co-actress, Jada Pinkett Smith.
“Jada, I love you. Ji Jin 2I can’t wait to see you,” he said sarcastically in a clear nod to the actor’s shaved head.
Pinkett Smith – announced last year She shaved her head after suffering from hair loss – She can be seen in the audience with her husband, Rolling her eyes at the joke.
After Rock was suspended, Smith stood up and proceeded to walk toward the stage.
“Uh-oh…” I heard the rock band speak. Smith then proceeded to hit Rock and then walked off the stage back to his seat.
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Rock said, She looks clearly shocked at the moment.
Smith was then heard yelling, “Keep my wife’s name out of your mouth,” to which Rock replied, “Wow… dude. She was Ji Jin joke.”
“Keep my wife’s name out of your damn mouth!” Smith shouted again. “I’m going to…” replied the comedian, who seemed confused upon interaction.
“That was the greatest night in television history,” said Rock, before handing over the award for best documentary.
Find out exactly what Smith’s resignation means for his future at the Oscars here.