CNN
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Within the moments following Will Smith’s beautiful on-stage slap of Chris Rock throughout Sunday’s Oscars telecast, members of the Academy of Movement Image and Arts and Sciences management “firmly requested” Will Smith’s publicist for the actor to depart the ceremony, in keeping with a supply with information of the state of affairs.
Smith “was firmly requested by the use of his publicist to depart the Oscars. He refused and that was communicated again to Academy management,” the individual stated.
The supply spoke to CNN following a number of printed stories Thursday disputing the Academy’s declare in a press release issued Wednesday night that Smith “was requested to depart the ceremony and refused.”
Representatives for Smith didn’t reply to CNN’s requests for remark
Thursday.
The Oscar-winning actor has maintained a low profile on social media since issuing an apology on Monday.
“I used to be out of line and I used to be flawed,” Smith wrote partly. “I’m embarrassed and my actions weren’t indicative of the person I wish to be. There is no such thing as a place for violence in a world of affection and kindness.”
The Academy has “initiated disciplinary proceedings” towards Smith over his actions on the Oscars.
“Board of Governors at present initiated disciplinary proceedings towards Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Requirements of Conduct, together with inappropriate bodily contact, abusive or threatening conduct, and compromising the integrity of the Academy,” the group stated in a press release.
One other board assembly is ready to happen on April 18, at which era, “the Academy could take any disciplinary motion, which can embrace suspension, expulsion, or different sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Requirements of Conduct,” the assertion stated.
