Will Smith refused to leave the Oscars after slapping Chris Rock, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences mentioned Wednesday, because the group started initiating disciplinary proceedings towards the actor for violating their code of conduct.
“Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated,” the Academy mentioned in a brand new assertion.
“While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently,” the group added.
Sources told TMZ that Smith was requested to leave by two Academy bigwigs, its president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson.
Rubin and Hudson had been reportedly “furious” and “apoplectic” at Smith, and the 2 officers received right into a screaming match backstage with the actor’s reps after the viral assault.
The Academy mentioned Smith will probably be in a position to defend himself in a written response earlier than the board meets once more on April 18.
Disciplinary motion for the actor might embrace expulsion, suspension, or different sanctions.
Smith on Sunday night time stormed the stage and smacked Rock earlier than returning to his seat to scream profanity on the presenter, who had made a crack about his spouse Jada Pinkett Smith‘s baldness.
After the primetime meltdown, Smith stayed on the award’s ceremony and even acquired a standing ovation whereas accepting a Best Actor Oscar for his function in “King Richard.”
In the times because the surprising televised slap, the academy has launched quite a few statements “condemning” and expressing outrage over Smith’s conduct.
The group on Wednesday continued denouncing Smith.
“Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television,” the academy mentioned Wednesday.
“Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment. We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.”
With Post wires
