LOS ANGELES—Will Smith was asked to leave the Oscars ceremony after he slapped presenter Chris Rock but refused, Hollywood’s film academy said on Wednesday as it started a process that could lead to the best actor winner’s expulsion from the group.
During the live telecast, Smith strode up to the stage after Rock made a joke about the appearance of Smith’s wife, then smacked the comedian’s face. The actor returned to his seat and twice yelled an obscenity at Rock.
