The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has come out to announce that it has started disciplinary proceedings against actor Will Smith after he slapped Chris Rock on stage at Sunday night’s Oscars event.

The group recently revealed this via a press statement, and the world has been reacting.

According to the academy, Will Smith actually refused to leave the awards ceremony following the altercation despite being asked to exit the building repeatedly.

The group then apologize to Chris Rock for what he experienced on our stage and thanked him for his resilience in that moment.

It read, “The Board of Governors today initiated disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Smith for violations of the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, including inappropriate physician contact, abusive or threatening behavior, and compromising the integrity of the Academy.”

“Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated. While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently.”

“Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment.”

“We also apologize to our nominees, guests, and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.”