The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Board of Governors has moved up the deadline for considering possible sanctions against Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock during this year's Oscars ceremony.
In a letter obtained by CNN on Wednesday, Academy president David Rubin stated, "I am calling a board meeting for this Friday morning, April 8, at 9:00 a.m. PT, rather than the previously scheduled April 18 meeting, to address possible sanctions for Will Smith in response to his actions during the Oscars broadcast on March 27."
"The date of April 18 was chosen in compliance with California law and our Standards of Conduct because our agenda included the possibility of Mr. Smith's suspension or expulsion from membership," the letter states. "We were obligated to give Mr. Smith 15 days' notice of any board meeting where such action would be considered, as well as the chance to furnish the board with a written statement no less than five days prior to such meeting.""Suspension or expulsion are no longer a possibility, and the legally defined schedule no longer applies," according to the letter, citing Smith's resignation from the Academy last Friday.
Rubin stated, "It is in the best interests of all parties concerned for this to be handled as soon as possible."
Smith struck Rock when the comedian and actor joked about Jada Pinkett Smith's short hair from the Oscars stage.
"Jada 'G.I. Jane 2,' I adore you, and I can't wait to see you,' "While giving the best documentary prize, Rock stated.
"Keep my wife's name out of your f***ing mouth!" Smith yelled at the comic as he stepped on stage, struck Rock, and walked back to his seat.
Smith received the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in "King Richard" not long after.
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