Will Smith Announces Resignation From Academy Over Chris Rock Slap

Will Smith resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures Friday in the face of possible suspension or expulsion from the organization for his on-stage slap of Chris Rock at the Oscars last weekend.

Smith said in a statement he would “fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct” imposed by the Academy’s Board of Governors.

“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,” Smith said in the statement, obtained by Variety.

“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.”

Smith apologized for taking attention away from other award winners, whose accomplishments were overshadowed not only by the so-called slap heard ‘round the world, but his emotional acceptance speech moments later as he accepted the Best Actor for his role in “King Richard.”