LOS ANGELES — Five days after sending a shock wave through Hollywood by striking presenter Chris Rock on live television, Oscar winner Will Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.
The resignation letter, obtained by the Los Angeles Times on Friday, apologizes not only to Rock but to other Academy Award nominees and winners.
“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,” the statement read. “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."
———
