As the Academy begins its investigation and disciplinary process for Will Smith after he slapped Chris Rock, they revealed he was asked to leave the show, but refused. On the contrary, a source who was there says they never asked the actor to leave.
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After Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on television, there has to be accountability from the Academy. Not only to send a statement to deter others from similar behavior, but to address how this even happened.
As they launch their investigation, so far, they have made it out of this situation without anyone in the public eye blaming them. This happened during what was supposed to be one of the most secure events in Hollywood. While Will Smith did finally win his Oscar after his actions, now, the Academy has the tough decision of what disciplinary action they’ll take.
So far, the Academy has been tight-lipped, but yesterday, they revealed to Variety that Smith was asked to leave the showm but refused. This came after Will had already apologized for a second time via Instagram.
However, TMZ is now reporting that was all a lie, according to everyone they’ve talked to. Out of the three people TMZ spoke with, the main reason he was never asked to leave is that backstage decision-makers were split on the matter.
Their sources say Oscars producer Will Packer went to Will during a commercial break and said, “We do not want you to leave.” With that in mind, it’s interesting the Academy would put out propaganda saying differently.
In the midst of all this, a new angle of the altercation has surfaced, which you can watch below.
Source: bossip