The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences sent a letter to its members addressing the incident that occurred at the Oscars ceremony when Hollywood star Will Smith walked onto the stage and slapped comedian Chris Rock after he made a joke about the appearance of Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. The letter stated that Academy leadership is "upset and outraged" over the altercation and how it "overshadowed" a celebration of the film industry community.
Now, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has said in a statement, “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 recognise we could have handled the situation differently."
The Academy said it started a process that could lead to disciplinary action against Will for violations of its standards of conduct, "including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy." Suspension, expulsion or other sanctions may be approved at its next board meeting on April 18
The Academy also released a statement regarding the incident shortly after the awards ceremony concluded on Sunday evening. It read, "The Academy does not condone violence of any form. Tonight we are delighted to celebrate our 94th Academy Awards winners, who deserve this moment of recognition from their peers and movie lovers around the world."
