According to reports, Will Smith has decided to resign from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences following the slapping incident involving himself and Chris Rock on Sunday.
In a statement released to Variety, where Smith described his actions as "shocking, painful, and inexcusable." He added, “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 continued, “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,” he said, adding that with “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 Smith's resignation, Academy president David Rubin said, “We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.” Rubin continued, “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.”
Source: variety.com
