"I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences" - Will Smith resigns from the Oscars over Chris Rock slap

 American comic actor, Will Smith has finally resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences after he slapped Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.

 Recall, Naijagistapp earlier reported Here  that Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars 2022 award night for making a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Since then, the actor has been possibly facing expulsion or suspension, chose to resign instead.

On Wednesday, March 30, the group gave Will Smith 15 days to provide an explanation following his actions, adding that he had violated the Academy's standards of conduct.

The group also stated that the actor will face suspension, expulsion or further sanctions.

Also Read: "My behaviour was unacceptable and inexcusable. I was out of line and wrong" - Will Smith apologises to Chris Rock for slapping him at the Oscars

Will Smith who responded to the Academy in a statement dated April 1 choose to resign instead.

 "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."

He continued "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."..the statement read.

You Might Also Like: "Let's do it in August on my undercard" Jake Paul says as he offers Will Smith and Chris Rock £11.5m each to fight in the wake of the Oscars controversy