Will Smith resigns from the Academy after Oscars incident

Will Smith resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after hitting Chris Rock at the Oscars.

The Academy began proceedings against Smith after he apologized to Rock the day after the Oscars.

Will Smith resigned from the Academy on April 1 in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter.

Smith said that he had responded to the Academy's notice and would accept any and all consequences for his actions. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were terrible. Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences are on the list of those I have hurt.

I betrayed the trust of the academy. I prevented other nominees and winners from celebrating and being celebrated for their work. I am sad. I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the work it does to support creativity and artistry in film. I resigned from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate.