Will Smith resigning from the Academy

PanARMENIAN.Net - In the wake of slapping comedian Chris Rock onstage at the Oscars, Hollywood actor Will Smith said Friday, April 1 that he is resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

In a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Smith said he was heartbroken and would accept all consequences for his conduct during the ceremony.

“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,” Smith said. “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.”

Academy President David Rubin said the organization had accepted Smith's "immediate resignation."

"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," Rubin said in a statement.

A representative for Smith didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

According to the Reporter, Smith's resignation means he can't vote for future Academy Awards, but he can still be nominated, attend the event and keep the best actor statue he won Sunday night. Smith won for playing Richard Williams, father of tennis greats Venus and Serena Williams, in the film "King Richard".