Academy Accepts Will Smith’s Resignation, President Says Disciplinary Proceedings Will Continue
The Academy’s President, David Rubin, stated, “We will continue our disciplinary measures against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct.”
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has responded to Will Smith’s resignation.
“We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,” said David Rubin, President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, in a statement to PEOPLE on Friday.
“We will continue to press forward with our disciplinary actions against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct in advance of our next planned board meeting on April 18,” Rubin stated.
Smith’s resignation came following a brawl with Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards on Sunday night, which prompted the statement.
“I quickly responded to the Academy’s notice of disciplinary hearing, and I completely accept any and all consequences. At the 94th Academy Awards, I did something shocking, unpleasant, and unacceptable.” The Oscar winner announced in a statement to PEOPLE on Friday.
“Among those I have hurt are Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I had betrayed the Academy’s trust.”
He went on to say, “I robbed other candidates and winners of the chance to enjoy and be recognized for their exceptional efforts. I’m heartbroken. I want to refocus the Academy’s attention on those who deserve it for their achievements, allowing it to focus on the incredible work it does to support cinematic innovation and artistry. As a result, I am resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and I will accept any extra ramifications that the Board may impose.”
“Change takes time, and I’m committed to complete the work necessary to ensure that violence never again triumphs over reason,” he said.
The feud began when Rock, who was on stage presenting the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature, joked about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head, which she just revealed was the result of her years-long battle with alopecia. “Jada, I adore you. I’m excited to see you again in G.I. Jane 2 “Rock cracked a witty remark.
When Smith stepped onto the stage and smacked Rock in the face, the audience and live viewers across the world were stunned. “Oh wow,” remarked a visibly moved Rock as Smith returned to his seat. The narrator states, “Will Smith just smacked the s— out of me.”
The Academy said in a statement released Monday afternoon, “The Academy denounced Mr. Smith’s behavior on last night’s show. We have launched a thorough inquiry into the incident in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct, and California law, and will consider further action and penalties.”
The Academy’s Standards of Conduct were also issued, which “provide an ethical framework for Academy members.” The Academy stated, “Members should operate in a manner consistent with the Academy’s good reputation.”
Unacceptable behavior includes “uninvited physical contact that is improper and unwanted in the situation,” according to the statement.
According to the Standards of Conduct, if a member is found to have broken the rules, “the Academy may take any disciplinary action allowed by the Academy’s Bylaws, up to and including suspension of membership or expulsion from membership.”
Source: people.com
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