Academy condemns Will Smith’s actions, launches review

By JAKE COYLE
AP Film Writer

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences says it condemns the actions of Will Smith during Sunday night’s Oscars and it will launch a formal review of his slapping of presenter Chris Rock. In a statement Monday, the film academy said it will also “explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law.” The academy did not name Smith in a statement Sunday night after the confrontation. Smith slapped Rock after the comedian made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Smith won the best actor award later in the ceremony.