Academy promises ‘appropriate action’ against Will Smith over Oscars slap

Following the Will Smith controversy at the 2022 Oscars ceremony, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) said that it is "upset and outraged" over the actor's behaviour and it will take "appropriate action" soon. 

Best actor winner Will Smith smacked presenter Chris Rock in the face and shouted a vulgarity at the comedian after he made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head.

AMPAS president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson sent a letter to the Academy members, promising that the organisation will take "appropriate action" over the incident after an official process that would take a "few weeks".

"Sunday's telecast of the 94th Oscars was meant to be a celebration of the many individuals in our community who did incredible work this past year. We are upset and outraged that those moments were overshadowed by the unacceptable and harmful behaviour on stage by a nominee," the letter read.

"To be clear, we condemn Mr. Smith's actions that transpired Sunday night. As outlined in our bylaws, the Academy's Board of Governors will now make a determination on appropriate action for Mr. Smith. As governed by California law regarding members of nonprofit organizations like the Academy, and set forth in our Standards of Conduct, this must follow an official process that will take a few weeks."