Jason Harris
After Will Smith shockingly slapped Chris Rock on stage during the 94th Oscars last Sunday, the Board of Governors decided to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the consequences Smith will be facing – he won the Oscar for best actor for “King Richard”. At this stage, he’s currently facing “suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted.”
Variety confirms that the next board meeting is scheduled for April 18, wherein the Academy may take disciplinary action against Will Smith.
The Academy released a statement below as per Variety:
The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy.
Consistent with the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, as well as California law, Mr. Smith is being provided at least 15 days’ notice of a vote regarding his violations and sanctions and the opportunity to be heard beforehand by means of a written response. At the next board meeting on April 18, the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct.
Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television. Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment. We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.
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 recognize we could have handled the situation differently.
Editorial credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
Jason Harris
rhoda
