The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences on Wednesday moved up a meeting on disciplinary actions against Will Smith, for the Oscar-winning actor’s slap on presenter Chris Rock.

“I am calling a board meeting for this Friday morning, April 8, at 9:00 am PT, rather than the previously scheduled April 18 meeting, to address possible sanctions for Will Smith in response to his actions during the Oscars broadcast on March 27,” CNN quoted Academy President David Rubin in a letter obtained yesterday.

Also read | Amy Schumer shares her joke that was deemed inappropriate for Oscars

“The April 18 date was set in accordance with California law and our Standards of Conduct because our agenda included possible suspension or expulsion of Mr. Smith from membership,” the letter read, explaining that the date had been moved forward in light of Smith’s resignation days earlier.

Rubin explained in the letter that “suspension or expulsion are no longer a possibility and the legally prescribed timetable no longer applies,” and that the Academy would instead look to impose sanctions on the embattled actor after his antics during the 2022 Oscars ceremony.

The news of the fast-tracked meeting to discuss sanctions comes days after Smith, who won the Best Actor award this year, put out an emotional statement announcing his resignation from the Academy for slapping Rock.

Also read | Will Smith’s Oscars slap echoes at Grammy Awards 2022

“The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home. I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken,” the 53-year-old had said.

Prior to his resignation, Smith had issued a public apology to Rock, and despite the presenter’s reluctance to press charges against his assailant, many in Hollywood have called for strong action against Smith.