Hollywood star Will Smith has reportedly resigned from the Academy while facing a formal review into his Sunday night’s on-air assault.
On Sunday, the King Richard star sparked controversy as he stained the 94th Academy Awards by slapping presenter Chris Rock in the face after the latter made a joke about his wife’s medical condition known as alopecia.
In the fallout of the shocking incident, the Academy has launched a formal review into the attack and confirmed that the A-lister is facing disciplinary actions including potential exclusion from all future events.
Now, the 53-year-old actor took another surprising turn as he resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences saying he is ready to face consequences for his “shocking, painful and inexcusable” actions.
In a statement obtained by Variety, Smith wrote: “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.
“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.”
Besides his resignation, Smith offered to accept any further disciplinary actions taken by the Academy’s Board of Governors.
“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.
Concluding his statement, the Men in Black star said he remains “committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason” even though “change takes time.”
What are your thoughts on this matter? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends. For more news and stories, follow us on Facebook!