Will Smith shocked the world on Sunday when he slapped Chris Rock on stage at the 2022 Oscars. Immediately after that occurred, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences condemned Smith’s actions.
“The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show,” the Academy said in a statement. “We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our bylaws, standards of conduct and California law
On Wednesday, the Academy provided an update on its formal review. It turns out it has already begun its “disciplinary proceedings” against Smith.
“The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy,” the latest statement said.
Smith will receive 15 days notice of the Academy’s vote. He’ll also have the chance to be heard via written response.
The Academy Begins Disciplinary Proceedings Against Will Smith, Says He Refused to Leave Ceremony https://t.co/R2gQR0gqQk
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 30, 2022
On Monday night, Smith apologized to Rock in a lengthy Instagram post.
“Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally,” Smith wrote. “I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
Smith could face “suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions” from the Academy because of his actions.
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