In the ongoing ‘Slapgate’ controversy, Hollywood actor Will Smith was reported to have resigned from the Academy for his ‘inexcusable’ action of slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022. On Friday, the King Richard actor announced his resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
It should be noted that Smith’s resignation in no way means he can’t be nominated for the Academy Awards or attend the Academy Awards ceremonies in the future. He will be able to hold on to his Best Actor award and his resignation only means he will not be eligible to vote for the Oscars.
After Will Smith announced his resignation, the Academy president David Rubin issued a statement in which he said that the Academy will continue with its proceedings against the actor for violating the standards of conduct.
“We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. We will continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18.” the statement read.
The Facts of the Matter
A star-studded evening, a controversial slap, a tearful apology and a resignation. This is the story of the Will Smith – Chris Rock ‘slapgate’ controversy so far. Days after Will Smith divided the internet by slapping comedian Chris Rock for a joke he said at the Oscars, the former announced his resignation from the Academy.
The actor in his statement mentioned how his actions at the award ceremony were “shocking, painful and inexcusable”, and further added how the list of people he has hurt including his family, co-stars and audiences is long.
Also Read: Oscars 2022: Will Smith Smacks Comedian Chris Rock Over Joke on Wife Jada Pinkett Smith
What Did Will Smith Say Regarding his Resignation?
“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.” Smith’s resignation announcement statement read.
The 53-year-old actor concluded his statement with – “Change takes time, and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
Also Read: This is Alopecia Areata – The Condition Will Smith’s Wife Jada Suffers from and was Mocked About
Here’s What Will Smith’s Resignation Really Means
Smith’s resignation at the Academy is being considered as bare-minimum appeasement by netizens across the world. His resignation will not take away his Best Actor award for ‘King Richard’, nor will it make sure that he doesn’t get invited to the future Academy Award ceremonies. Further, the resignation also does not mean he will not be nominated in future. It simply means that he will not be a voting member at the Academy.
Disciplinary Proceedings to Continue: Academy President
In the aftermath of the announcement, Academy president David Rubin issued a statement which read – “We have received and accepted Mr. Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. We will continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18.”
Also Read: ‘Satark Rahe’ Anup Soni Shares Hilarious Take on Will Smith – Chris Rock ‘Slapgate’ Controversy
What Happened at Oscars 22 Between Chris Rock and Will Smith?
The Will Smith – Chris Rock controversy erupted earlier on Sunday when the former slapped Rock for making a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith. Chris Rock was presenting the Best Documentary Feature award when he made a joke about Smith’s shaved head. This was when Smith stormed on the stage and struck Rock – stunning both the audience and the presenter himself.
After striking Rock, Smith returned to his seat and roared – “Keep my wife’s name out of your fu****g mouth”.
An hour later, Smith came to the stage again. This time to accept the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in King Richard. A day later, Smith also issued a public apology.
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