Will Smith resigns from Academy amid backlash over Oscars slap

Will Smith, the actor, has resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences (AMPAS).

This means he can no more vote at the Oscars but can keep his statuettes, attend future awards, and be nominated.

The Hollywood star had slapped Chris Rock after the comedian made a stage joke about Jada Pinkett, his wife.

Rock had, in his joke, mocked Pinkett’s shaved head which the latter said was due to alopecia, a hair loss condition.

Smith’s response received mixed reactions from Hollywood stakeholders, some of whom condemned the assault.

Many critics also called for his sanction while the actor faced possible expulsion or suspension over the issue.

However, Smith, in a statement on Friday, resigned from the Academy after describing his move as “inexcusable”.

He said he would accept any additional consequences that the Academy’s board of governors deems appropriate.

“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 said.

“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.”

Smith acknowledged that his actions overshadowed the reception of the winners at the 94th Academy Awards.

“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 added.

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

David Rubin, Academy president, in response, stated that AMPAS has accepted Smith’s immediate resignation.

“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,” he said.