By Chisomo Phiri
NEW YORK-(MaraviPost)-United States Actor Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after smacking Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards.
Smith said in a statement, via his representative, sent to PEOPLE, “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.”
He added, “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.”
The Academy’s president David Rubin said it had accepted Smith’s resignation, but would continue its disciplinary proceedings.
Smith slapped Rock over a joke about his wife’s shaved head, a result of the hair-loss condition alopecia.
Less than an hour later, he was awarded the best actor award for his role in “King Richard”, where he played the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams.
