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Sunday night, the world witnessed one of the craziest events on live television as superstar actor Will Smith walked on stage and slapped presenter Chris Rock across the face. He then berated him, screaming at the top of his lungs, dropping “F” bombs that were of course cut out of the broadcast.
The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences had since come under fire for not doing more after the incident. However, according to the Hollywood Reporter, Smith was asked to leave but refused to do so. On Tuesday, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences released a statement regarding the situation with Smith.
“The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy,” the statement read.
The next board meeting is schedule for April 18th, at which point the Academy could take action that could include “suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct.”
Later in the statement, the Academy stated very clearly that they asked Mr. Smith to leave and he refused. They did however acknowledge they likely could have handled the situation better. Knowing the amount of security as the Academy Awards every year (hint, it's like the Super Bowl), it seems somewhat unlikely that they could not have removed Smith from the show if they wanted to.
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Smith remained in his front row seat and less than an hour later, was awarded the first Oscar of his career for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He played Venus and Serena Williams' father in the film “King Richard.” So, if he was indeed asked to stay, it stands to reason it was because he knew he was the favorite to win that award, making it the biggest night of his professional career.
But all of that has gone by the wayside now after his actions. Whether or not Chris Rock was aware that Smith's wife Jada Pinkett Smith had a condition that kept her from growing her hair, that does not give Will Smith the right to physically assault someone. Not just at the Academy Awards, but anywhere.
