Will Smith made an announcement this Friday afternoon that he will resign from the Academy because of the unfortunate incident that took place between him and Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022. Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on the stage of this year’s Oscars after he cracked a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith.
What Does The Resignation Of Will Smith Mean From The Academy?
Following this event, the Academy planned to file a formal disciplinary and investigation process on the 18th of April. After this inquiry, further actions like punishments or sanctions will be taken against him as per their bylaws. However, if Will Smith’s resignation is accepted, he can no longer enjoy his power of voting in the Academy.
Will Smith can still be nominated for his future works and will be invited to the ceremonies of the Academy even after his resignation. This decision of resignation came just after the notice of his disciplinary hearing. Smith took full responsibility for his actions and stated that his behavior was painful, shocking, and unacceptable. He apologized to all the members whom he have hurt including Chris Rock, his family members, Smith’s friends, and family, and the audience all over the world.
Will Smith also shared that he is heartbroken knowing the fact that his action took the spotlight from all the winners of the Oscars 2022 and mentioned that they all must be praised for their hard work and success that is celebrated by the Academy every year.
David Rubin, the President of the Academy, and Dawn Hudson, the CEO recently met with Smith and discussed his suspension, expulsion, and other disciplinary actions for his slap. An official statement was released by the Academy where they stated that the organization condemns the violence of Smith on Chris Rock and a formal investigation and review would be conducted to analyze the situation and to know the consequences of such an act by the Bylaws.
