Compiled by: Quadri Akanbi
American actor and film producer Will Smith on Friday 1st April tendered his resignation from the Oscars Academy after slapping comedian Chris Rock on stage for making a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith at the Oscars award.

The 53-year-old actor who has already apologized for his actions, admitting that his behavior was “unacceptable and inexcusable” and left him “embarrassed” said he will fully accept all consequences for his conduct.

In a statement, he issued in response to the Academy, Smith said he was heartbroken because he not only betrayed the trust of the Academy but deprived other nominees and winners of the award of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work.

”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.”

‘He further stated that he wants to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.

“Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”

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The academy said that it accepted his resignation.

“We have received and accepted Will Smith’s immediate resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,” David Rubin, its president, said in a statement. “We will continue to move forward with our disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, in advance of our next scheduled board meeting on April 18.”

Now that he has resigned, Will Smith will no longer have access to academy screenings and events. He will also not be able to vote in the Academy Awards. However, he could still be nominated for an award, since being a member is not a requirement for eligibility.

Smith’s resignation came roughly 12 hours after Will Packer, the lead producer of the Oscars telecast, spoke publicly about the episode for the first time.