“The Board of Directors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violating the Academy’s standards of conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior and endangering the integrity of the Academy,” the organization behind the Oscars in a statement.
The statement also alleges that Smith was asked to leave the ceremony “and refused” after the incident. The Academy said it acknowledged that “we could have handled the situation differently”.
“Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness personally and on television. Mr. Rock, we apologize for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience on that moment,” the statement added. “We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what happened during what should have been a celebratory event.”
Another board meeting will be held on April 18, at which time “the Academy may take disciplinary action, including suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by statute and standards of conduct,” the statement said.
“Consistent with the Academy’s Standards of Conduct and California law, Mr. Smith will be given at least 15 days’ notice to vote regarding his violations and sanctions, and will be given the opportunity to be heard beforehand through a written response,” the statement said.
DailyExpertNews has reached out to Smith’s representatives for comment.
Still the talk of the day
The Academy’s strong statement comes as the talk about the blow being heard around the world showed no signs of cooling.
“I was out of line and I was wrong,” he wrote in part. “I am ashamed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
This was because many criticized the Academy for handling the incident on Sunday night.
Sykes told Ellen DeGeneres during an appearance on her talk show that she felt Smith should have been escorted out.
“For them to let him stay in that room and enjoy the rest of the show and take his award, I thought, ‘How gross is this? This is just the wrong message,” she said.