byiShook Opinion
Oct 11, 2023 - 11:04
Jada Pinkett Smith unveils a seven-year separation from Will Smith and shares her perspective on the Oscars incident with Chris Rock. Discover their journey
Jada Pinkett Smith has disclosed that she and her spouse, Will Smith, have quietly been leading separate lives since 2016. The celebrated actress and host of Red Table Talk shared this personal revelation, shedding light on the reasons behind their decision to keep this matter private.
During an exclusive preview from her upcoming NBC News special alongside Hoda Kotb, Jada affirmed that, despite their separation, she has chosen not to initiate formal divorce proceedings. She underlined a promise she made to herself, vowing not to let their union end in divorce, expressing her steadfast commitment to navigating challenges together.
Reflecting on their choice to pursue separate paths, Jada candidly stated, "By the time we reached 2016, we were both simply exhausted from trying," adding, "We were still ensnared in the fantasy of what we believed the other person should be."
Speaking about their present relationship status, Jada Pinkett Smith shared with People, "We're still in the process of discovering what this means for us. We've engaged in profound introspection together, bound by a profound love, and we're committed to finding our unique path."
Additionally, Jada addressed the controversial incident at the 94th Academy Awards on March 27, 2022, where Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock during the presentation of the Best Documentary Feature Prize. She initially believed it to be a skit, only realizing its gravity as Will returned to his seat. Jada expressed her concern for her husband's well-being and acknowledged that he must find his own way through this.
Following the incident, Will Smith took the step of resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences and issued an apology to Chris, denouncing his actions as "unacceptable." He also clarified that Jada had no involvement in the altercation, leading to his 10-year ban from the Oscars.
Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith, who exchanged vows in 1997 after Will's divorce from Sheree Zampino, have a son, Trey Smith, aged 30. They are also parents to Jaden Smith, 25, and Willow Smith, 22.
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