On Friday, Will Smith made the shocking announcement that he will be resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences following his “inexcusable” actions at the Oscars.

The actor’s statement was released after the Academy denounced Smith’s aggressive actions at the Awards, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock after he made a joke about Smith’s wife.

In Smith’s statement, he said that he has “directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing noticed” and that he will “fully accept any and all consequences” for his conduct.

“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,” said Smith. “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. 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,” concluded Smith. “Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”

 

 

In response to the actor’s statement, the Academy said it has accepted the resignation.

Will Smith and wife Jada Pinkett Smith at the Oscars

“We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,” said David Rubin, the president of the Academy. “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.”

A “resignation” from the Academy means that Smith will no longer have access to the privileges of members, such as attending Academy film screenings and the ability to vote for potential Academy Award nominees.

However, Smith could still be nominated for an award and, pending the results of his hearing later this month, may still be able to attend future Academy Awards and related events.

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