Will Smith tearfully accepts the Best Actor Oscar for his role as King Richard.
Related press
hide captions
switch captions
Related press
Will Smith tearfully accepts the Best Actor Oscar for his role as King Richard.
Related press
According to press reports, actor Will Smith has abandoned his membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, after he appeared on stage at the Oscars ceremony. Before receiving the Best Actor award for his role in the movie King Richardhe walked up to the stage and slapped comedian Chris Rock, who told a joke about Smith’s wife’s hair.
“I have responded directly to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct,” Smith wrote in a statement. “My actions at the 94th Academy Awards were shocking, painful and inexcusable. The list of people I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many close friends. my love and loved ones, all present and the global audience at home.”
The statement continued, “I have betrayed the trust of the Academy. I have deprived them of their opportunity to be nominated and other winners to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary achievements. I I want to focus back on the people who deserve attention because of their achievements and allow the Academy to return to the incredible work it has done to support creativity and artistry in movie. “
Smith wrote that he would accept whatever consequences the Board of Governors deems appropriate. Earlier this week, the Academy said it would begin disciplinary proceedings that could include suspension or expulsion.
“Change takes time,” he wrote, “and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never let violence overwhelm reason again.”
