A formal review has been launched into the altercation between Will Smith and comedian Chris Rock during the Oscars ceremony, the Academy has announced.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said it "condemned" the actions of Mr Smith. Mr Smith, who won his first Academy Award for King Richard, appeared to take offence to a gag Mr Rock made about Jada Pinkett Smith's hair.
The Magic Mike XXL star and Red Table Talk host has previously spoken about her struggles with alopecia and said it is what prompted her to shave her head. Referring to her buzzcut, Mr Rock said: "Jada, can't wait for GI Jane 2", prompting the actress to roll her eyes.
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However, Mr Smith walked up on stage and appeared to hit Rock before returning to his seat and shouting twice: "Keep my wife's name out of your f****** mouth." The altercation left Mr Rock shocked and flustered as he tried to resume presenting the best documentary feature category.
The incident cast a cloud over Mr Smith's acceptance speech for his first-ever Oscar, after he was named best actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams, the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams, in King Richard. Mr Smith apologised to both the Academy and his fellow nominees, but not to Mr Rock, as he collected his gong, joking that he "looks like the crazy father."
In a new statement to the media on Monday, the film academy said: "The Academy condemns the actions of Mr Smith at last night's show.
"We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our bylaws, standards of conduct and California law."
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