Will Smith was reportedly asked to leave the Oscars after slapping Chris Rock.
On Wednesday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that they have begun disciplinary proceedings on Smith over his actions at Sunday’s Academy Awards.
“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,” the organization behind the Oscars said in a statement.
The Academy also claims that Smith was asked to leave the Dolby Theatre after the incident but refused.
“Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated,” the Academy said. “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.”
Prior to this, there was speculation that the Academy and producers allowed Smith to stay until his Best Actor category was announced, a move they were criticized for.
“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,” the statement continued. “We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.”
Smith, who received a standing ovation after he won his first Oscar, later apologized to Rock directly in a post on Instagram. “I was out of line and I was wrong,” he wrote. “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.”
Another board meeting is scheduled for April 18 during which the Academy “may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct.”
