The academy has not yet decided what consequences this would have for Smith, but now he is withdrawing from the membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Sorry to other winners
– I withdraw from the membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the board finds appropriate, Smith writes according to Variety.
– I have failed the academy’s trust. I have taken from other nominees and winners their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. My heart is broken, Smith continues.
The board of the academy met on Wednesday to begin the disciplinary process against Smith for the battle, which is a violation of the academy’s guidelines. The academy said the consequences for Smith could be expulsion, deportation or other forms of punishment.
Took time before the apology came
Everyone saw the incredible scene on live TV, but what happened afterwards is more debated. Smith is said to have been asked to leave the venue by some organizers, he is said to have refused, another producer is said to have asked him to stay. But then there is no doubt that Smith had to be on stage again when he received the award for best actor for his role in “King Richard”.
In the speech, it seemed that Smith defended his actions by comparing his own outburst of anger with the protective instinct of Richard Williams, the role he received an Oscar for. The speech, Smith’s lack of apology right after the incident and his decision to attend the afterparty have not been well received.
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