“Jokes about my physical condition are part of the work,” he claimed, “but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to handle, and I reacted emotionally.”
“I’d like to apologize to you publicly, Chris.” I was both out of line and incorrect. I’m embarrassed, and my actions do not reflect the man I aspire to be. Violence has no place in a world of love and peace.”
“Violence in all forms is corrosive and harmful,” Smith wrote in his article.
He also apologized to “the Academy, the producers of the program, all the guests, and everyone watching across the world,” as well as the Williams sisters’ families and anyone involved with the film for which he earned his best actor award on Sunday.
“I profoundly sorry that my actions have marred what has otherwise been a beautiful journey for all of us,” he wrote. “I’m still working on myself.”
During the Oscars event, Smith slapped Rock when the comedian made a joke about his wife.
Smith would return to the stage 40 minutes later, this time as the winner.
A weeping Smith recognized the earlier incident and apologized to the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, the organization behind the Oscars, and fellow candidates as he accepted his best actor prize for his part in “King Richard.”
Following the ceremony, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences issued a brief statement about the on-stage incident, which read: “Violence in any form is not tolerated by the Academy. Tonight, we are thrilled to honor the 94th Academy Award recipients, who have earned this honor from their peers and moviegoers all across the world.”
Rock also elected not to seek charges against Smith for the onstage altercation, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
By Monday afternoon, the Academy had published a stronger statement, criticizing Smith’s behavior and disclosing that a “formal review” into the event had begun.
“In compliance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct, and California law,” it said, “we will investigate further action and penalties.”
According to two persons familiar with the discussion, at least a dozen Academy members gathered electronically on Monday morning to consider a response to Smith smacking Rock.
