Almost a week after slapping Chris Rock during the 94th Academy Awards, Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
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In a statement to the Academy, Smith condemned his actions from last Sunday and called them “shocking, painful, and inexcusable.” He continues to say: “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.” The actor also noted that he wants the focus to be back on those who “deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does.”
“Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
As previously reported, Will Smith slapped Chris Rock over a G.I. Jane joke regarding Jada Pinkett-Smith’s shaved head and the moment became the talk of the night. Sources close to Rock claim he was unaware that Pinkett-Smith was diagnosed with alopecia.