The Oscar-winner says, "I am heartbroken."Photo: AFP
Will Smith resigned from the Academy on Friday before a decision on his punishment could be made for his Oscars slap.
In a letter to the Academy, the Oscar-winner said that he "will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct" and that "his actions were "shocking, painful, and inexcusable." Will added, "I am heartbroken."
The actor made the move shortly afer learning he'll face disciplinary action for slapping Chris Rock.
Acadmey president David Rubin said they'll continue to move forward with their disciplinary proceedings. The board will meet on April 18th.
Meanwhile, studios are distancing themselves from Will. Netflix has reportedly paused development on Will's upcoming action-thriller Fast and Loose, and Sony is reportedly halting production of Bad Boys 4.
Will Smith’s full resignation statement:
“I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable.
“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, 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. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken.
“I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film. So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.
“Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason."