On Friday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which is hosting the Oscar ceremony, met for an online meeting to discuss disciplinary matters.
Smith apologized for his actions and left the academy. The actor hit Rock after the comedian joked about Smith’s wife’s shaved head – she was shaving because of her health.
This year, Will Smith received the award for Best Actor for his role in King Richard, the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams.
In a statement, the U.S. Film Academy said the Oscars were “overshadowed by the unacceptable and damaging behavior we saw in Mr. Smith’s behavior on stage.”
In his statement of resignation, Smith stated that he had “betrayed the confidence of the Academy” and that his heart had been broken by his own actions.
He added that he would “fully accept any and all consequences of his behavior.” His resignation means that Will Smith will not be able to vote for the next Oscar voter.
In addition to the Film Academy, at least two other film studios – Sony and Netflix – have suspended their cooperation with Smith for the time being.
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