On Monday, Deadline reported that SAG-AFTRA issued statement condemning Will Smith’s assault on Oscar presenter Chris Rock after the comedian cracked a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith’s, appearance. Smith went on to win the Oscar for Best Actor, but this morning, the Academy announced formal review of his win, which may result in his award getting revoked. SAG-AFTRA’s statement is as reads below:
“As the union representing presenters and other performers working on the Oscars, SAG-AFTRA is focused on ensuring our members always work in a safe environment. Violence or physical abuse in the workplace is never appropriate and the union condemns any such conduct. The incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable. We have been in contact with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ABC about this incident and will work to ensure this behavior is appropriately addressed. SAG-AFTRA does not comment on any pending member disciplinary process.”
SAG members have taken to Twitter to condemn Smith including Mark Hamill, Rob Reiner, and Rosie O’Donnell. Some fear that Smith’s lack of consequences will start a trend of violence and entitlement. The Academy issued a similar statement condemning Smith’s actions.
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