By Leshi Adebayo
With the final decision of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science still being awaited on the incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock at last Sunday’s Oscars awards, the former has taken a quick action on the matter.
The award-winning actor has decided to resign his membership status from the Academy, as contained in a statement on Friday by his spokesperson.
According to the statement, Will Smith noted that he regretted his actions and promised to take upon himself whatever decisions the Academy’s board makes on the matter.
It read, “I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct. My 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. 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.”
Following this development, the actor will no longer be able to vote on Oscar-nominated movies and performances each year. However, his works will still be eligible for future Oscars consideration and nominations.
In reaction to the Will Smith’s statement, the organization has duly acknowledged the resignation but will proceed with necessary disciplinary actions, whether suspension or expulsion among other sanctions on the actor.
David Rubin, President of the Academy said in a statement on the same day, “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.”
