Will Smith Was Asked to Leave Oscars Ceremony But Refused, Says Academy

Will Smith

Will Smith Was Asked to Leave Oscars Ceremony But Refused, Says Academy

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released a statement, explaining that they have begun “disciplinary proceedings” against Will Smith over his behavior at the Oscars.

Will Smith just punched Chris Rock and told him "keep my wife's name out of your f***ing mouth" pic.twitter.com/YK5aQqv89t

— BACKUP ACCOUNT (@JasmineBrandTHE) March 28, 2022

The organization claims that the actor was asked to leave after slapping Chris Rock, but refused to do so.

Smith will receive 15 days notice of a vote and have an opportunity to be heard by written response. The next board meeting is scheduled for April 18. See the Board’s full statement below.

See below for the Academy’s full statement.

The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy.

Consistent with the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, as well as California law, Mr. Smith is being provided at least 15 days’ notice of a vote regarding his violations and sanctions, and the opportunity to be heard beforehand by means of a written response. At the next board meeting on April 18, the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct.

Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television. Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment. We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.

Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated. While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently.

Rock has refused to press charges.

Smith has released a public apology.

#WillSmith's mother speaks about son's first Oscar, stage confrontation pic.twitter.com/g4kpcXJAAS

— BACKUP ACCOUNT (@JasmineBrandTHE) March 29, 2022

His mother also did an interview, addressing the incident.

Should Will Smith be punished by the Academy? Let us know in the comments.