The Academy released a statement about Will Smith after the episode with Chris Rock

The controversial episode starring Will Smith and Chris Rock at the 94th Oscars, it reverberated around the world and analyzes of the behavior of both abounded: the limits of humor, the use of verbal and physical violence, the necessary education about some diseases and even gender roles in episodes violent.

In this regard, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released a statement positioning himself against Smith’s behavior that finally took the statuette for Best Performance for his role in the film “King Richard”.

“Sunday’s telecast of the 94th Academy Awards was meant to be a celebration of the many people in our community who did incredible work last year,” the statement began.

“We are upset and outraged that those moments were overshadowed by unacceptable and harmful behavior on stage by a nominee,” continues the statement in relation to the violent event that occurred last Sunday, March 27.

It all started when Chris Rock, a renowned comedian with a long career in the American humor industry, took the stage to present one of the award categories. In his monologue he made a joke about the physical appearance of Will Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smithwho suffers alopecia and for this reason he decided to shave his head.

The joke was especially unpleasant for the woman who made it clear that she had been upset with Rock, but the situation went further when Smith got up from his chair, walked to the stage and hit the comedian with his open palm.

Then the protagonist of “King Richard” He returned to his seat and continued yelling at the comedian, “Get my wife’s name out of your mouth.” The episode was experienced with great tension by the rest of the guests at the event and by Rock himself, who was confused after the blow.

According to the organizers, after Smith hit the comedian on stage, they asked the actor to leave the event but he refused. In fact, it transpired that he was very animated at the post-award party and that he would even have made peace with the humorist who, at the moment, will not file charges against the interpreter.

In this way, the actor could face a suspension, expulsion or other sanctions if the board decides to take action at the meeting scheduled for April 18. Smith will receive 15 days advance notice of the vote, as well as an opportunity to be heard via letter.

“The actor’s actions violated the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and commitment to the integrity of the Academy,” the statement released Thursday ends.