The Oscars film academy has condemned Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock at Sunday’s ceremony, and has launched a formal review of the incident.
A statement said it would “explore further action and consequences” in accordance with California law, and the body’s standards of conduct.
Smith slapped Rock in the face on stage after the comic made a joke about the actor’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
Actor Will Smith had issued a public apology today to Chris Rock over the incident
Full Statement
Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally.
I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed 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.
I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world. I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us.
I am a work in progress.
Sincerely,
Will
