Los Angeles:
Will Smith has resigned from the Oscars’ body after his attack on Chris Rock at the weekend ceremony, a statement said Friday.
“I am canceling my membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and will accept any further consequences as the board of directors deems appropriate,” the actor wrote in a statement from multiple outlets.
“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful and unforgivable.
“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all in attendance and a global audience at home.”
Those in attendance at the Dolby Theater watched open-mouthed as Smith climbed the stage and punched Rock in the face after the comic made a joke about his wife’s cropped head.
Jada Pinkett Smith has alopecia, a condition that causes hair to fall out.
“I have violated the trust of the Academy. I have deprived other nominees and winners of the opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am devastated.
“I want to bring attention back to those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it is doing to support creativity and artistry in film.”
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