“The List Of Those I Have Hurt Is Long And Includes Chris Rock & His Family” Will Smith Resigns From Academy Membership

53 years Willard Carroll Smith shocked the world and sparked great public debate after the celebrity took to Oscar’s stage and slapped Chris Rock in his face for joking about his wife Jada Pinkette Smith’s short hairdo. More details here.

Watch The Moment Will Smith Slapped Chris Rock On Stage For Joking About His Wife Jada

On Wednesday, March 30, the Academy claimed Will Smith had violated their standards of conduct and that he had 15 days to provide a written response to explain his actions. Will Smith was set to face suspension, expulsion or other sanctions.

Will Smith then issued a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter on Friday afternoon, April 1. “I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable. 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.”

The statement continues: “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. 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.

“So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”