Academy: Will Smith was asked to leave the Oscars but refused

The Hollywood Reporter

The Academy's Board of Governors announced in a statement this afternoon it has begun “disciplinary proceedings” against Smith for slapping Chris Rock. "Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated," the Academy said in its statement. "While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently." The Academy added: "At the next board meeting on April 18, the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct."

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