Will Smith Chooses to Resign from Academy Following Oscars

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Will Smith has opted to resign from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. This comes as the Academy is currently investigating and deliberating whether or not to expel the Oscar-winning actor following his on stage conduct.

The following statement from Smith was first published by Variety:

“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. “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.”