Will Smith refused to leave after Oscars slap, says Academy; Chris Rock kicks off comedy tour
- The Academy will hold a vote on what action should be taken against Smith, which could include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions
- Previous expulsions include Harvey Weinstein in 2017 over numerous sexual assault cases, and Roman Polanski in 2019 over his 1978 conviction for raping a child
Smith could face expulsion from the Academy for the open-handed slap, which came moments before the star of King Richard was handed the best actor award – an announcement greeted with cheers by the audience.
“While we would like to clarify that Mr Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognise we could have handled the situation differently,” a statement said.
The Academy, the body that hands out the Oscars, said it would hold a vote on what action should be taken against Smith over the globally televised assault, which marred Hollywood’s most important evening.
“The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr Will Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behaviour, and compromising the integrity of the Academy,” the statement said.
“Mr Smith is being provided at least 15 days’ notice of a vote regarding his violations and sanctions, and the opportunity to be heard beforehand by means of a written response.
“At the next board meeting on April 18, the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct.”