Joy Onuorah

The Agence France-Presse has reported that Will Smith has tendered his resignation from the body that awards the Oscars after slapping comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 Oscars ceremony.

His statement read:

 “I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate,” the actor wrote in a statement carried by multiple outlets.

“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.”

“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 focus on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work to support creativity and artistry in film.”

Meanwhile this is Smiths’ second apology, but Rock is yet to comment on the matter.

According to National World, five people have been publicly expelled from the Academy for sexual assault charges. Producer Harvey Weinstein, comedian Bill Cosby, director Roman Polanski, and cinematographer Adam Kimmel.

The first person to be expelled was actor Carmine Caridi (best known for a role in The Godfather trilogy), who was shown the door because of copyright infringement charges.

If the academy code of standards is anything to go by, Smith risks losing his first-ever Oscars. Smith won the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Richard Williams, the father of tennis superstars Venus and Serena, in “King Richard”.