“Things turned out in a way we could not have predicted,” the statement said. “While we would like to make it clear that Mr Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also acknowledge that we could have handled the situation differently.” Smith’s representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BuzzFeed News. The Academy did not answer any questions seeking further information on how the resignation request was sent to him. On Monday, the actor described his actions as “unacceptable and unforgivable” and publicly apologized to Rock for not doing so in his acceptance speech shortly after the incident. “I’m deeply sorry that my behavior has tarnished what was an otherwise wonderful journey for all of us,” he said. “I’m a project in progress.” On Wednesday night, Rock told the audience at his stand-up comedy show in Boston that “what was happening was still being worked on,” according to reporters at the audience. He said he was not prepared to talk about slapping as part of his set, but added, “At some point I’ll talk about this shit. And it’s going to be serious and funny,” Variety reported. The Los Angeles Police Department said the comedian refused to report to police. However, legal experts said authorities could still investigate and prosecute. After the Oscars, Sykes told DeGeneres, Rock came up to her to apologize, saying: “It’s supposed to be your night. You and Amy and Regina did such a great job. I’m so sorry about that now. I will deal with it. “
