The Academy has revealed that they asked Will Smith to leave the ceremony after he slapped Chris Rock - but he refused.
On Wednesday, the Board of Governors released a statement detailing what happened during the awards show per The Hollywood Reporter.
"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," it read.
The statement went on to say that disciplinary proceedings against Smith have already begun and that his outburst violated the Academy’s Standards of Conduct.
"Consistent with the Academy’s Standards of Conduct, as well as California law, Mr. Smith is being provided at least 15 days’ notice of a vote regarding his violations and sanctions, and the opportunity to be heard beforehand by means of a written response,” the statement said.
It then explained that the board would decide at their next meeting exactly what consequences Smith would face: "At the next board meeting on April 18, the Academy may take any disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other sanctions permitted by the Bylaws and Standards of Conduct."
Though it isn’t known yet what will happen to Smith, it’s clear from the Academy’s statement that his use of violence was entirely out of order.
"Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television. 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," it read.
The King Richard star shocked the world on Sunday night when he stormed on stage and slapped Rock for making a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
Rock's gag suggested that Pinkett Smith might be set to appear in the next GI Jane movie because of her closely cropped hairstyle. Pinkett Smith - who suffers from alopecia - rolled her eyes, and moments later her husband strode on stage and hit the comedian.
As Rock tried to laugh it off, Smith yelled at him to "keep my wife's name out of your f***ing mouth". The moment was broadcast live around the world.
Smith - who won the Best Actor award mere moments later - has since apologized to both Rock and the Academy for his reaction.