Academy begins 'disciplinary proceedings' against Will Smith, says actor refused to leave ceremony

In a statement released after a Board of Governors meeting, the institution said the actor could face suspension, expulsion or other sanctions if the board chooses to take action at the next scheduled meeting on April 18

"Disciplinary proceedings" are underway against Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, said the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, adding that the actor was asked to leave the awards ceremony after the incident but refused to do so.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Academy on Wednesday said through his actions Smith violated its Standards of Conduct, "including inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy".

In a statement released after a Board of Governors meeting, the institution said the actor could face suspension, expulsion or other sanctions if the board chooses to take action at the next scheduled meeting on April 18.

Smith will also receive 15 days' notice of a vote as well as an opportunity to be heard by written response beforehand.

"Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated. While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently," the Academy said.

The statement from the Academy didn't provide details about who asked Smith to leave. The Academy also apologized directly to Rock in the statement, as well as nominees, guests and viewers.

While presenting the Oscar for best feature documentary on Sunday night, Rock cracked a joke about Smith's actor-wife Jada Pinkett Smith, who currently sports a shaved head due to alopecia.