'Upset & Outraged': Academy Updates on Will Smith-Chris Rock Investigation

Will Smith slaps Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022.

(Photo Courtesy: Twitter)

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences is yet to take legal action against Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars. Now, the board has sent a letter to its members, informing them about what action would be taken regarding the incident.

A letter, signed by Academy president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson, obtained by Variety read,

“Sunday’s telecast of the 94th Oscars was meant to be a celebration of the many individuals in our community who did incredible work this past year. We are upset and outraged that those moments were overshadowed by the unacceptable and harmful behaviour on stage by a nominee."

"To be clear, we condemn Mr. Smith's actions that transpired Sunday night. As outlined in our bylaws, the Academy's Board of Governors will now make a determination on appropriate action for Mr. Smith. As governed by California law regarding members of nonprofit organisations like the Academy, and set forth in our Standards of Conduct, this must follow an official process that will take a few weeks", it added.

The letter further stated, "We will continue to update you on any developments, but we also ask that you respect your Board, Academy staff and the process as this unfolds so it can work in the considered way it was intended and mandated. Please trust that the Board of Governors will conduct this process in a manner that is both expedient and respectful of all involved while maintaining the standards of the Academy."

Will had hit Oscar presenter Chris after the latter cracked a joke on Jada Pinkett Smith's medical condition.