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By Patricia McKnight
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In the wake of resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, critics say Oscar-winning actor Will Smith's departure is a ruse to dodge further consequence.
On Friday, a spokesperson for Smith issued a statement announcing that his actions were "shocking, painful and inexcusable." People took to social media arguing Smith just doesn't want to take the heat.
"The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris [Rock], his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home," Smith said. "I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken."
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Smith's resignation comes two days after the Academy initiated disciplinary proceedings against him for violations of the group's code of conduct. The Academy said consequences could include suspension, expulsion or other sanctions from the organization.
A representative with the Academy said Smith would have the opportunity to defend himself from repercussions in the form of a written response before the board meets again on April 18.
It seems Smith has declined the Academy's offer, booting himself from the organization.
Smith's resignation means he is no longer a voting member of the Academy, according to Variety. For now, Smith gets to keep his Best Actor Oscar, can still get invited to Academy Awards ceremonies and be nominated for future awards.
Critics took to Twitter, skeptical of Smith's decision.
"BREAKING: Will Smith resigns from the Academy," said producer Andy Ostroy. "Says, 'My toxic masculinity and ego won't allow me to be kicked out so I'm doing it first.'"
Some believe that Smith's resignation is somewhat selfish, for not letting the Academy make the final call.
"So ... Will Smith resigns from the Academy, avoiding fate of those who got kicked out, like Weinstein, Cosby and Polanski," said NPR TV Critic Eric Deggans. "He does it before the Academy can kick him out and says 'I'm heartbroken.' Will he do anything in wake of this that isn't self-serving?"
Although the Academy said future consequences could result in expulsion and weren't yet decided, people say Smith wanted out to avoid possible humiliation from being kicked out.
"Will Smith quitting instead of teaching humility is a tragedy," GOP pollster Frank Luntz said. "Committing violence when you feel insulted, and then quitting when you are rightfully condemned for your actions. Is that a role model?"
"Will Smith resigns from the Academy in what is clearly an effort to pacify against further action," said Rahul Puri, managing director of Mukta Arts Ltd. "It means nothing. Just that he can't vote for future Oscar winners. He can be one though."
During the 94th Academy Awards, presenter Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's short haircut, which is due to complications from alopecia, prompting Smith to march to the stage and slap Rock in the face. Days after his violent outburst, Smith made a public apology on Instagram, saying his actions were out of line.
"My behavior at last night's Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable," Smith said. "Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada's medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally."
Newsweek has reached out to Will Smith's team for comment.
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