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One week after Smith’s slap, theFresh Prince of Bel-Airactress condemned her former costar’s move in a brief messageshared on Twitter.
“My heart aches for what has happened,” she continued. “I don’t know what caused that chaos & confusion, but I do know that Will has a big heart. I’ve seen him many times try his best to do what is right. I believe in him.”
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Ali and Smith starred together on all six seasons ofThe Fresh Prince of Bel-Airfrom 1990 – 1996.
On Friday,Smith resignedfrom the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in response to his actions at last Sunday’s award show. In a statement made via his representative and sent to PEOPLE, theKing Richardstar said he “will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct” as a result of his actions at the Academy Awards, which he called “shocking, painful, and inexcusable.”
“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy,” Smith said. “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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“I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film,” the 2022 best actor Oscar winner continued.
David Rubin, President of the Academy, said in a statement sent to PEOPLE on Friday that the organization hadaccepted Smith’s resignation.
However, Rubin said the Academy planned to “move forward” with disciplinary proceedings against Smith “for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct” ahead of their April 18 board meeting.
During Rock’s first show after the incident on Wednesday, the comedian told a crowd at The Wilbur Theatre in Boston that hewas still “processing"what happened atthe Oscars.
source: people.com
