“Things have unfolded in a way that we did not expect.”
Will Smith refused to leave the 94th Academy Awards on Sunday after comedian Chris Rock was slapped, according to the academy.
In a statement on Wednesday, the academy said, “Things have unfolded in a way that we did not expect.” “While we want to make it clear that Mr Smith was asked to leave the event and was rejected, we also acknowledge that we could have handled the situation differently.”
The academy further stated that it has initiated disciplinary action against its board of governors for “violating the standard of conduct of the academy, inappropriate physical contact, offensive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the academy.”
After comedian Jada Pinkett joked about Smith’s hair, Smith went to the Oscars stage on Sunday night and slapped Rock. Back in his seat, Smith then shouted, “Keep my wife’s name out of your mouth,” twice.
Rock will present for Best Documentary and later in the evening Will Smith won Best Actor for his role in “King Richard”.
This is a developing story. Please look back for updates.