In a shocking turn of events, Will Smith has decided to resign from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences after the entire controversy of the actor slapping comedian Chris Rock during the Oscars ceremony. The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has also accepted Will Smith’s resignation and further stated that the board will move forward with its disciplinary proceedings against the actor.
The Academy has earlier stated that Smith’s violations include inappropriate physical contact and abusive or threatening behaviour that is viewed as soothing and compromised the integrity of the organisation. The Academy has not disclosed any additional details regarding this matter.
Will Smith Has Issued An Official Statement Following His Resignation
The actor has issued an official statement stating that his actions were shocking, painful and inexcusable. He further added that he has betrayed the trust of the Academy and has also deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. While the actor won’t be able to vote on Oscar-nominated movies and performances from now in. His work is still going to be eligible for future Oscars consideration and nominations. Take a look at the award acceptance speech delivered by the actor.
Best Actor in a Leading Role goes to Will Smith for his incredible performance in 'King Richard' Congratulations! #Oscars pic.twitter.com/y0UTX48214
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) March 28, 2022
The whole controversy came into existence in the first place after presenter Chris Rock went on stage on said that Jada Pinkett Smith should be appropriate for the next GI Jane movie. It was a diss at her shaved head which did not sit well with Will Smith. It was a sensitive issue as the actress had shaved her head in 2021 as she was diagnosed with alopecia which a health condition that eventually leads to hair loss.
Just a few minutes after this shocking incident took place on stage, Will Smith accepted his Oscar award, and further apologised to the Academy, not mentioning Chris Rock. He was teary-eyed while admitting that he was out of line and wrong. The controversy soon became the talk of the town. Not to forget, it has taken social media into a deep frenzy giving way to a heated discussion amongst fans.
