Chris Rock Slapped, Will Smith Resigns From Membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Kapanlagi.com - Actor Will Smith has decided to resign from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) a few days after the incident where he slapped Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards ceremony.

Will Smith released an official statement that was published on Friday (4/1) local time. "I resign from my membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and fully accept all consequences of my behavior. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards were surprising, painful, and unforgivable," said Will Smith.

David Rubin, who is the president of the film academy, accepted Will Smith's resignation. "We will continue the process against Will Smith for his violation of the academy's standards of conduct before the next scheduled meeting," said David Rubin via apnews.com.

At the recent Academy Awards ceremony, Will Smith walked from his front-row seat at the Dolby Theatre to the stage and slapped Chris Rock. Chris Rock had previously made a joke about Jada Pinkett, Will Smith's wife.

1. Potential Joining with Several Actors

This resignation occurred two days after the academy leadership council met to initiate an investigation process against Will Smith for violating the academy's standard of conduct. If the investigation results prove true, it could result in Will Smith being expelled and given additional punishment.

If expelled, Smith will join a group of actors expelled from the academy. They are Harvey Weinstein, Roman Polanski, Bill Cosby, and Carmine Caridi.

2. Will Not Repeat Violent Actions

The 53-year-old actor also acknowledged that any form of violence cannot be justified.

"Change takes time and I am committed to working to ensure that I will no longer engage in violence for any reason," concluded Will Smith.

(kpl/ums)