Will Smith resigns from the Academy: “I am heartbroken”

Actor Will Smith announced in a statement that he has resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences.

Smith went onstage and slapped actor Chris Rock after the later joke about Smith’s wife Jada Pinkett Smith.

The Academy said that it had “initiated disciplinary proceedings” against Smith.

Here is the full statement of Smith:

“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.

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.”

(Photo source: Youtube screengrab – @Guardian News)