Will Smith Resigns From Academy Membership Ahead Of Disciplinary Decision

The whole world witnessed the Oscars fiasco where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock over a joke. Rock might have not wanted to file charges against Smith, but Academy Awards committee has been very upset about the incident.

While Oscars has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Smith, he has decided to resign from the membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This was a shocking move that he made public on Friday.

Smith issued a statement following his decision. The statement was obtained by The Hollywood Reporter and read as follows.

“I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my 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,”

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Smith elaborated on his decision and clarified that he is ready to face all the consequences from the incident he caused. He expressed that he is extremely heartbroken. He pointed out several more reasons why he decided to resign.

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

The Academy is expected to conclude it’s disciplinary decision in a few weeks. Ahead of it, Will Smith has made his own choice by resigning. More to come regarding this story, until then stay tuned.

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