The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has launched a “formal review” into Will Smith’s Oscar night slap of Chris Rock, as it condemned the “King Richard” star’s behaviour.
“The Academy condemns Mr. Smith’s actions,” the statement said.
“We have officially begun a formal review of the incident and will consider additional action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct, and California law.”
The AMPAS statement is its first official comment since the primetime attack, though it did tweet early Monday that it “does not condone violence in any form.” The group avoided naming any specific consequences Smith might face.
Smith walked on stage late Sunday and slapped Rock after he made a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s baldness, prompting Hollywood insiders to speculate whether his eventual Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in “King Richard” could be revoked.
Whoopi Goldberg, an AMPAS board governor, stated on Monday that Smith will not lose his trophy, but that consequences will undoubtedly follow.
“We’re not taking that Oscar away from him,” she said on “The View.”
“We’re not going to accept it. I’m sure there will be repercussions. But I don’t think that’ll be the case. Especially since Chris stated, ‘Listen, I’m not pressing any charges.'”
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Rock has “declined to file a police report,” but if he changes his mind, the department “will be available to complete an investigative report.”
According to a source close to Rock, he does not intend to press charges, but “it has not been decided yet.”
“He has the right to file a complaint,” said the source.
