Hollywood legend Will Smith has apologized for his actions that occurred at the Academy Awards in March amid reports that the Academy is prepared to punish him. Amid those reports he has issued his own apology and willingly resigned from the Academy.
A statement issued Friday reads as follows.
“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,” the statement says. “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.”