Los Angeles – AFP
Will Smith announced in a statement that he has decided to resign from the Academy, after he slapped comedian Chris Rock during the awards ceremony.
“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards were shocking, painful and inexcusable,” Smith wrote in the statement, which was published by a number of specialized Hollywood media.
The 53-year-old added: “The list of people I have injured is long and includes Chris and his family, many of my dearest friends and loved ones, all who were present and the global audiences at home.”
“I am resigning from my membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and will accept any consequences the board of directors deems appropriate,” he added.
“You betrayed the confidence of the academy,” Smith added. Other nominees and winners were denied the opportunity to celebrate their exceptional work. I am heartbroken.”
Smith took to the stage furious to slap Rock shortly after the latter released a joke about the shaved head of his wife, Jayda Smith, who has alopecia areata.
On Wednesday, the Academy began looking into the disciplinary measures to be taken against Smith.