American actor Will Smith has resigned from the Oscars Academy, known as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science, after slapping Comedian Chris Rock during last week‘s Oscars ceremony.
In a statement released on Friday, the Hollywood star described his actions at the 94th Academy Awards as “shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” outlining that he “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 stressed.
Smith shocked the world on Sunday when he slapped comedian Chris Rock on one of the world’s biggest stages, moments after the comedian had made a joke about his wife’s appearance during the ceremony.
In his acceptance speech, Smith offered his apologies to both the Academy and the audience for his actions.
The same tone was echoed in Smith’s latest statement, indicating that 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.”
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The now-infamous incident had caught the audience off guard, with mixed opinions among celebrities.
Jim Carrey and Judd Apatow were among many other actors who denounced Smith’s unacceptable behavior, suggesting that he should have been arrested.
While those who attended the Oscars ceremony frankly stated that Smith’s actions had marred the most significant event in the acting industry. Joseph Patel, an Oscar-winning producer, slammed Will for his behavior, indicating that the actor’s “selfishness” robbed him and his filmmakers from celebrating their moment of glory.
The Oscars Academy had also released a statement condemning the actions of the ceremony’s best actor winner.
“The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show,” the statement said, stressing that the Academy leadership has “officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law.”
With Smith’s latest decision to resign from Hollywood’s most prestigious organization, the Academy president David said that the actor’s resignation was accepted yet the Academy will continue to move forward with its disciplinary proceedings against Smith.
Several reviewers have predicted that Smith’s actions could deeply affect his long-established career as his public reputation has been tarnished.
