As the story continues to develop, The Academy is revealing what took place during the immediate aftermath of the slap that was heard around the world.
According to a statement released by The Academy’s Board of Governors met for the first time today to decide whether or not Will Smith’s Oscar will be revoked. In their statement, they revealed that a vote will take place to determine how they will move forward.
Academy Reveals What Will Smith Refused to Do Immediately After He Slapped Chris Rock
In addition to the decision that will be made at a future date, The Academy clarified what exactly took place immediately after Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on the Oscars stage. “Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated,” the statement read.
“While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently.” Many fellow Hollywood comedians have since come forward to say they are upset with The Academy for not escorting Will Smith out of the theater.
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Comedian Jim Carrey also slammed his peers who were in attendance for applauding Smith when he won his Oscar just moments later.
“The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy,” their statement began. “Consistent with the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, as well as California law, Mr. Smith is being provided at least 15 days’ notice of a vote regarding his violations and sanctions, and the opportunity to be heard beforehand by means of a written response.”
“At the next board meeting on April 18, the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct. Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television. Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment. We also apologize to our nominees, guests, and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event,” the statement concluded.
Since his actions took place, Smith took to Instagram to apologize to Chris Rock directly, saying that “Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable.”
“I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
The only person to have yet to speak out about the incident personally is Chris Rock, himself. He is set to perform tonight in Boston, it’s unclear if he will use a portion of his set to address what happened to him.