Will Smith 'resigns from the Academy after Chris Rock slap for Jada Pinkett Smith joke'

ok.co.uk:

Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences following backlash for slapping Chris Rock on-stage at the 94th Oscars on Sunday 27 March, according to reports.The 53 year old actor, whose wife Jada Pinkett Smith recently broke her silence following the ceremony, described his actions as 'shocking, painful and inexcusable' for his outburst during the star-studded evening and would accept any additional consequences from the Academy's Board of Governors. "The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home," he said in a statement first obtained by Variety.

He continued: "I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work.

I am heartbroken." Get exclusive celebrity stories and fabulous photoshoots straight to your inbox with OK!'s daily newsletter The King Richard actor also acknowledged that his actions overshadowed the awards ceremony and added how he wanted to 'put the focus back on those who deserve attention'.

Will, who shares children Willow, 21, and Jaden, 23, with wife Jada, shared how 'change takes time' and revealed how he is 'committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason'.