Academy: Will Smith Refused To Leave Oscars After Rock Slap

NEW YORK (AP) โ€” The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences said that Will Smith was asked to leave Sundayโ€™s Oscars after hitting Chris Rock but refused.

Many have questioned why Smith was allowed to remain seated front row at the Academy Awards after the incident.

The academyโ€™s board of governors met Wednesday to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Smith for violations against the groupโ€™s standards of conduct.

The academy said Smith has the opportunity to defend himself in a written response before the board meets again on April 18.

The academy said disciplinary action for Smith could include suspension, expulsion or other sanctions.