The Academy Says Will Smith Refused To Leave After Slapping Chris Rock

Many have questioned why the King Richard star was allowed to remain at the glitzy event after he literally assaulted the comedian on stage in the middle of the broadcast.

However, it's since been revealed that he was told to get out following his attack on Rock, but he refused.

Instead, he was allowed to remain in the front row before being allowed to step back on stage to accept his award for Best Actor.

"While we would like to clarify that Mr Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognise we could have handled the situation differently."

Will was not only allowed to accept his award, but received a rapturous applause from the audience for winning the coveted gong.

It's a move that has divided Hollywood, with some people backing Smith for defending his wife from a punchline, while others feel violence has no place in society, especially on a night like the Oscars.

Smith has since issued a public apology to Rock and to the Academy for his actions.

"Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive," he said. "My behavior at last night's Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable.

"Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada's medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally.

"I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong.

"I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be.

"There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.

"I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world.

"I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard family.

"I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us.

"I am a work in progress."