Smith had also been subjected to "disciplinary processes" by the event's organizers. Smith struck Rock because the comedian made a joke about Smith's wife Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head, which is due to alopecia.The actor, who earned his first Academy Award during the event, has subsequently apologized.

"Mr Smith was requested to leave the event and refused," the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said in a statement, "but we also admit we might have handled the matter differently."It further stated that "disciplinary procedures have been begun against Mr Smith for breaches of the Academy's Standards of Conduct."

Inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and jeopardizing the Academy's integrity are among them, according to the statement.The Academy stated that it may take action at its next board meeting on April 18th. According to the statement, this might entail "suspension, expulsion, or other punishments." It also apologized to Rock, the nominees, the guests, and the audience.