31 Mar – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) recently announced that it has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Will Smith over his behaviour at the recently held Academy Awards. In a statement released to the media, the organisation expressed, "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 Academy also acknowledged that the "King Richard" star's actions were deeply shocking and traumatic to be witnessed in person and on live television, and apologised to Chris Rock for what had happened - thanking the comedian at the same time for his resilience in that moment. "We also apologise to our nominees, guests and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event," it added. The organisation also clarified previous accusations that it continued to let Smith stayed despite his behaviour, saying that the actor was asked to leave the ceremony but he refused. However, it "recognise" that they could have "handled the situation differently." Smith recently apologised for his behaviour at the 94th Academy Awards, after he went on stage and slapped Chris Rock for a joke that the latter made about Smith's wife Jada Pinkett Smith. Although the incident was not shown in the telecast in US, it was picked up in other countries including Australia and Japan and immediately went viral on social media.