American actor, Will Smith has announced his resignation from The Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences, organizers of the Oscars.
He made the announcement in a statement, days after slapping comedian Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars for making jokes of his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss condition, alopecia.
In his statement obtained by African Entertainment, Smith said “I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct.”
He added that “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.”
According to Will 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.”
He continued that “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. Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
Implications of Smith’s resignation
With his resignation, Mr. Smith will now be unable to vote on 2023 Oscars.
It also means he will be unable to take part in any event of the Academy.
He is also unlikely to present the Best Actress Award at the 2023 Award which is usually the tradition for the previous year’s Best Actor winner.
Board Meeting
African Entertainment understands that the Academy held an emergency board meeting of its governors on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, to start its formal review process.