Actor Will Smith could be expelled from the Academy following his very public assault of comedian Chris Rock, as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said that they have begun disciplinary action against the actor.
A statement by the Academy said that “while we should like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognized that we could have handled the situation differently”.
“The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Will 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.
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.”
Will Smith has since apologised publicly to Chris Rock via Instagram and the Academy during his acceptance speech, but has yet to address the latest statement by the Academy.