Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith have been one of the most famous and influential couples in Hollywood for over two decades. However, in a new interview with NBC News, the actress and author revealed that they have been living “completely separate lives” since 2016. She said that they were not ready to go public with their separation because they were still trying to figure out how to be in partnership. “We just got deep love for each other and we are going to figure out what that looks like for us,” she said.
The revelation comes as Pinkett Smith is promoting her new memoir, Worthy, which is set to be released on October 17. In the book, she shares her personal journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. She also opens up about her marriage with Smith, their family, and their challenges.
The couple had an “entanglement” during their separation
One of the most controversial moments in the couple’s relationship was when Pinkett Smith admitted to having an “entanglement” with singer August Alsina in 2020. She made the confession on her Facebook Watch show, Red Table Talk, where she and Smith discussed their marital issues. She said that the affair happened during a period of separation from her husband, when they were both unhappy and unsure about their future.
The term “entanglement” quickly became a viral meme and a source of jokes on social media. However, Pinkett Smith later explained that she used the word to avoid labeling the relationship as something that it was not. She said that she was not proud of what she did, but that it was part of her healing process. She also said that she and Smith had forgiven each other and moved on.
The couple faced backlash after the Oscars Slap in 2022
Another incident that put the spotlight on the couple’s marriage was when Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage at the Academy Awards in 2022. Rock was hosting the show and made a joke about Pinkett Smith’s shaved head, which she had done because of her alopecia condition. Smith, who was sitting in the front row with his wife, stormed onto the stage and hit Rock across the face, before returning to his seat and yelling obscenities at him.
The Oscars Slap caused a huge uproar and backlash from fans and celebrities alike. Many people criticized Smith for his violent and disrespectful behavior, while others defended him for standing up for his wife. Pinkett Smith said that she was shocked by her husband’s reaction and did not understand why he was so upset. She said that she initially thought it was a skit, and even after realizing it was not, she remained unclear about his motive.
In her memoir, Pinkett Smith also revealed that Rock had once asked her out when he thought she and Smith had separated. She said that he called her one summer when there were rumors of their divorce and expressed his interest in dating her. She said that she politely declined and told him that they were still together. She said that he was appalled and apologized profusely.
The couple are still legally married but living separately
Despite their separation, Pinkett Smith and Smith have not filed for divorce and are still legally married. They have two children together, Jaden and Willow, who are both successful artists and activists in their own right. They also have a close relationship with Smith’s son from his previous marriage, Trey.
The couple have been seen together at various events and occasions, such as birthdays, holidays, premieres, and award shows. They have also supported each other’s projects and causes on social media and in interviews. They have maintained a friendly and respectful co-parenting arrangement for their children.
However, they have also made it clear that they are no longer romantically involved and have different lives. They have reportedly been dating other people and pursuing their own interests and passions. They have also been living in separate homes for years.
Pinkett Smith said that they are still figuring out what their partnership looks like and how to present it to the world. She said that they are not interested in labels or expectations, but rather in finding happiness and fulfillment for themselves and each other.
