Topline
The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences wrote in a letter to its members it was “upset and outraged” by Will Smith’s slapping of Chris Rock at Sunday’s Academy Awards, CNN reported on Wednesday, as the Academy mulls consequences for Smith’s conduct.
Key Facts
Academy President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson in a letter obtained by CNN said they were “upset and outraged” by the incident and are evaluating “appropriate action” for Smith, which could take “a few weeks,” the letter said.
The Academy on Monday said it was launching a formal review to explore “further action and consequences” for Smith’s behavior in accordance with its laws and code of conduct.
The Academy’s Board of Governors is set to hold an annual post-Oscars meeting Wednesday and it will focus on Smith’s slap, CNN also reported.
The Academy earlier this week said it does not condone “violence of any form.”
Key Background
Smith on Sunday slapped Rock and told him to “keep my wife’s name out your f**king mouth” after Rock made a joke comparing Smith’s wife Jada Pinkett Smith to G.I. Jane. Pinkett Smith has hair loss caused by the autoimmune disease alopecia. Shortly after, Smith won the Oscar for Best Actor. Smith later apologized for the incident, calling his behavior “out of line” and saying there was “no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.” The Academy has said it will launch a formal review of the incident.
What To Watch For
A “determination” on “appropriate action” for Smith, which the Academy in its letter said could take several weeks. Punishment might include suspension or expulsion from the group, private or public reprimand, temporary or permanent loss of the ability to attend events or receive awards or “other sanctions that the Academy in its sole discretion may deem appropriate,” Variety reported, although sources told the publication the Academy is unlikely to revoke Smith’s award.
Further Reading
Suspension, Expulsion: How The Academy Could Punish Will Smith For Slapping Chris Rock (Forbes)
Academy 'outraged' by Will Smith's behavior, says decision could take weeks (CNN)
Academy Says It Does Not Condone Violence After Will Smith Slaps Chris Rock At The Oscars (Forbes)
Jada Pinkett Smith Posts She Is ‘Here For’ Healing After Oscars Slap (Forbes)
