The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has accepted Hollywood star Will Smith’s resignation and will continue to move forward with disciplinary proceedings against him. David Rubin, president of the AMPAS, said, “We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. We will move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standard of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18.”
The Hollywood star announced his resignation after he slapped comedian Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards on March 27. “I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct,” the star said in a statement, adding, “My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful and inexcusable.” His statement further said, “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.”