Will Smith ‘was asked to leave’ Oscars after Chris Rock slap but ‘refused’

metro.co.uk:

Will Smith was asked to leave the Oscars after he slapped Chris Rock, the Academy has revealed.The King Richard actor shocked the world when he stormed on stage and hit the comedian, after he made a joke about wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair.Moments later, he returned to the stage to collect the best actor gong for his role as Richard Williams, apologizing to the Academy and his fellow nominees in a tear-filled speech.Organizers have launched an investigation into what happened, and have now claimed that he was asked to leave the ceremony on Sunday after his actions, but ‘refused’.‘Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated,’ the Academy said in the message, via Sky News.‘While we would like to clarify that Mr Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognise we could have handled the situation differently.’To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 videoOrganizers have also announced that they had ‘initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct’.This is said to include inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behaviour, and compromising the integrity of the Academy.Will is able to defend himself in written form before the board meets on April 18, with possible actions against him including suspension or expulsion.Chris was on hand to present the award for best documentary feature in front of the star-studded audience, when he made jokes about those in the crowd.Directing his attention to Jada, he said: ‘Jada, can’t wait for GI Jane 2,’ referring to her buzzcut hairstyle.The Scream 2 actress appeared unimpressed with the comment as she suffers from.