Less than a week after slapping Chris Rock in front of the Oscars audience that has been viewed by the entire world, Will Smith has resigned as member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
In a statement released to the media on Friday, the Hollywood superstar said he has directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice and vowed to ‘fully accept any and all consequences’ of his conduct.
Smith likewise admitted his 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,” said the “I Am Legend’ actor; adding that he 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,” he said.
Smith went onstage last Sunday and smacked Rock in the face without warning after the comedian cracked a ‘G.I. Jane’ joke about hus wife Jada Pinkett Smith who suffers from alopecia which resulted in her loss of hair.
He went on to win the ‘Best Actor’ Awards for his role in ‘King Richard’ and has since issued a public apology over his outrageous action.
READ: Will Smith apologizes to Chris Rock: “I was out of line and I was wrong”
Meanwhile, Smith said he wants “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,” his statement further read.
“Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason,” Smith added.
The Academy earlier announced it has initiated ‘disciplinary proceedings’ against Smith following the embarrassing episode.
On Friday, David Rubin, President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, confirmed in a separate statement that the organization has received and accepted Smith’s resignation from the Oscars.