Actor Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after slapping comedian Chris Rock during an outburst at Monday’s Oscars ceremony.
Smith walked up on stage after taking offence at a joke Rock made about his wife Jada and her hair loss, caused by a medical condition.
He then walks back to his seat, where he can be heard yelling “Keep my wife’s name out of your f****** mouth!”
There are reports that Smith was asked to leave the ceremony shortly after but refused while producers claim Police were preparing to arrest him but that Rock declined to press charges.
Smith later went on to claim the Best Actor Oscar for his role in King Richard.
The Academy confirmed this week that it would consider disciplinary action against Smith after ruling that he had breached the standards of conduct.
He was facing suspension or expulsion but Smith has decided to jump first.
In a statement, Smith confirmed he was resigning from the Academy.
“I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” Smith said.
“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 put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.”
