The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has officially weighed in on Will Smith slapping Chris Rock on stage during last night’s awards show.
In a statement this afternoon, the Academy condemned Smith’s actions and announced it would be commencing a formal review of the incident, which stunned viewers watching on television and following on social media.
“The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show,” the statement reads. “We have officially started a formal review…and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law.”
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences: “The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show. We have officially started a formal review…and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law.”
— Michael Beschloss (@BeschlossDC) March 28, 2022
Smith, who would be presented with the “Best Actor” award later in the evening for his performance in “King Richard,” approached Rock onstage shortly after the comedian made a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s baldness due to alopecia.
After smacking Rock across the face, Smith left the stage and returned to his seat, where he could be heard yelling at Rock to “keep my wife’s name out your f—-n mouth.”
Smith later apologized for his actions during his “Best Actor” acceptance speech. He reportedly will not have to relinquish his award despite the incident.
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