The statement also said that Smith was asked to leave the ceremony after the incident “and refused”. The academy said it acknowledged “we could have handled the situation differently”. “Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event that we have personally and televised. Mr. Rock, we apologize for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience at that time,” the statement added. “We also apologize to our candidates, guests and spectators for what happened during a festive event.” Another board meeting will be held on April 18, when “the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion or other sanctions permitted by the Articles of Association and the Code of Conduct,” the statement said. “According to the Academy’s Code of Conduct, as well as California law, Mr. Smith is given at least 15 days’ notice to vote on his violations and sanctions and the opportunity to be heard in advance through a written response,” he said. The announcement. CNN contacted Smith’s representatives for comment.
Still the talk of the town
The strong statement from the Academy comes as the discussion about the slap that was heard around the world showed no signs of composure. Rock remained publicly silent about the incident, so all eyes are on the start of his comedy tour, which begins Wednesday night in Boston. Comedians Wanda Sykes and Amy Schumer, two of the three presenters on Sunday night, also spoke out in support of Rock on Wednesday, as did Rock’s brother. Smith, meanwhile, has maintained a low profile on social media since apologizing on Monday. “I was off the line and I was wrong,” he wrote in part. “I am ashamed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no room for violence in a world of love and kindness.” Smith’s apology, however, was not enough to stifle the reaction of the Academy leaders, who said in a letter to members on Wednesday that they were “upset and outraged”. This came as many criticized the Academy for handling the incident on Sunday night. Sykes told Ellen DeGeneres in an appearance on her talk show that she felt Smith should have been led out. “To let him stay in this room and enjoy the rest of the series and accept his prize, I said, ‘How ugly is that?’ “This is just the wrong message,” he said.
