The relationship between Jada Pinkett Smith and her husband Will Smith had been on separate paths since 2016, she disclosed during an interview with Hoda Kotb.
This revelation sheds light on their unconventional marriage that dates back to their union in 1997, where separations and difficulties were previously acknowledged but not in such explicit terms.
Although not legally divorced, Pinkett Smith revealed to Kotb in a preview released on “Today” that their situation is akin to a divorce in practice.
The couple shares two children, Willow and Jaden, in addition to Trey, Will Smith’s son from a prior marriage.
Requests for comments from representatives of both Smith and Pinkett-Smith have yet to receive immediate responses.
This disclosure came as a shock to many, given Pinkett Smith’s openness in her “Red Table Talk” series, where past episodes have delved into her extramarital affair in 2020 and the highly publicized incident at the 2022 Academy Awards.
At the event, Smith impulsively approached presenter Chris Rock on stage and delivered a slap after a joke was made about Pinkett Smith’s appearance.
The complete interview is scheduled to be broadcast on an NBC News special lasting an hour, airing on Oct. 13 at 8 p.m.
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Furthermore, Pinkett Smith’s memoir, “Worthy,” is set for release on Oct. 17, promising more insights into their lives and relationship, along with details about her upbringing in Baltimore.
Reflecting on their journey, Pinkett Smith expressed to Kotb that, “By 2016, we had grown weary of trying.
We both found ourselves entrapped by our idealized perceptions of each other.”
Despite contemplating divorce, Pinkett Smith admitted to struggling to take that step.
She emphasized her commitment to never allowing circumstances to lead them to separate, stating, “We will navigate through… whatever challenges come our way.”
In a recent conversation with People Magazine, Pinkett Smith shared her initial disbelief regarding the Oscars incident, suggesting she initially perceived it as a scripted skit.
Recalling the moment, she said, “I couldn’t believe Will would act that way,” only realizing the reality as he returned to his seat.
Smith has issued multiple apologies for his actions, resulting in a 10-year prohibition from attending the Oscars or any other academy-related functions.
