Will Smith Resigns From Academy

Late afternoon on Friday, Will Smith announced his resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after slapping Chris Rock at this year’s show. His resignation comes from Smith saying that he had “betrayed” its trust with conduct that was “shocking, painful, and inexcusable.” So, what does it mean to resign from the academy? Smith will no longer have access to academy screenings and events, not be able to vote in the Academy Awards, but, he could still be nominated for an award since being a member is not a requirement for eligibility.

Regardless of the resignation, the Academy will continue with disciplinary proceedings against Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct. Smith stated: “I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct…I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken…Change takes time, and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”

Source: NY Times