Will Smith Announces He’s Resigned from Academy

Will Smith announced Friday that he has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and admitted he’s “heartbroken” about having to do so following “disciplinary proceedings” by the Oscars over him slapping Chris Rock.

“I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct,” the 53-year-old actor shared in a statement, reported Deadline.

“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” he added. “The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris [Rock], his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy.”