Academy: Will Smith refused to leave the Oscars

Will Smith refused to leave the Oscars after slapping Chris Rock, according to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which has begun disciplinary proceedings against the actor for violating their code of conduct.

“Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated,” the Academy said in a new statement.

“While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently,” the group added.

Smith was asked to leave by two Academy executives, according to TMZ, president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson.

After the viral attack, Rubin and Hudson were reportedly “furious” and “apoplectic” at Smith, and the two officials got into a screaming match backstage with the actor’s reps.

Smith will be able to defend himself in writing before the board meets again on April 18, according to the Academy.

The actor could face expulsion, suspension, or other sanctions as a result of disciplinary action.

Smith stayed at the award ceremony after his primetime meltdown and even received a standing ovation while accepting a Best Actor Oscar for his role in “King Richard.”

The academy has issued numerous statements “condemning” and expressing outrage over Smith’s behaviour in the days since the shocking televised slap.

On Wednesday, the group continued to condemn Smith.

“Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television,” the academy said Wednesday.

“Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment. We also apologize to our nominees, guests and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.”

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