Will Smith resigned from the Oscars Academy Awards five days after he assaulted comedian Chris Rock during the live show. He said that his actions 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,” Smith said.
“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.”
The live show trended on Twitter with the hashtag #whatjusthappened after Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on camera. Chris Rock was on stage to present the award for Best Documentary when he made a joke about “GI Jane 2”. This was in reference to Jada Smith’s closely cropped hair (from her battle with alopecia). Smith stood up and walked to the stage and slapped Chris Rock and returned to his chair yelling profanities.
Later that night, Smith went on to win Best Actor for King Richard and in his speech, he apologized to the academy but not to Chris.
Yesterday, the Academy announced that they will start disciplinary action against Smith. Before any more damage could be done, Will smith resigned from the Oscars Academy.
“I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.
“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.”
Chris Rock has not commented on the situation after an emotional speech in Boston’s Wilbur Theater.