Jada Pinkett Smith. Rich Fury/VF22/Getty Images for Vanity Fair
During their marriage and years of separation, Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith had a policy of no secrets, which extended to their children as well. Speaking on the "On Purpose With Jay Shetty" podcast, Pinkett Smith, 52, revealed that this transparency was crucial in navigating the highs and lows of their relationship.
Pinkett Smith, who married Smith in 1997, has two children with him: son Jaden, 25, and daughter Willow, 22. Additionally, Smith has another son named Trey, 30, from his previous marriage to Sheree Zampino. Pinkett Smith recently disclosed that she and Smith have been separated since 2016, but she finds comfort in the fact that her family has been fully aware of their journey.
The Girls Trip actress asserted that "Will understands he was not deceived," in relation to her 2020 "entanglement" with August Alsina. "My children are aware that I did not betray their father. That is my primary concern," she expressed.
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Pinkett Smith garnered attention in July 2020 when Alsina, aged 31, asserted that he had engaged in a romantic involvement with the actress. While Pinkett Smith refuted these allegations initially, she later admitted that they had indeed been intimate during her separation from Smith.
After the controversy, it seemed that Pinkett Smith and Smith had reconciled and were flourishing in their relationship. Nevertheless, Pinkett Smith disclosed in her book Worthy, published on October 4, and in subsequent interviews, that the true extent of the situation had remained concealed from the public eye.
Pinkett Smith revealed on Monday's podcast that although she and her husband are married, they have decided to hold space for each other. Despite the mixed messaging, they are always family, no matter what. While her connection with her husband fluctuates, her closeness with her children remains unwavering.
Trey possesses an exceptionally large heart. What I admire most about Trey is his talent for building connections with people. This proficiency is something that I truly value," Pinkett Smith enthusiastically shared with Jay Shetty when discussing her stepson. "He possesses the remarkable ability to identify people's strengths, even during their most difficult moments... to look beyond their externalities and truly perceive their inner spirit."
She further stated: "Trey and I have been on a similar journey, spiritually speaking. We are the two individuals within our family who have embarked on a profound spiritual path. He brings such positivity and understanding into my life. He sees me for who I truly am."
Pinkett Smith expressed her admiration for her son Jaden, describing him as a source of boundless happiness. She acknowledged his innate ability to love everything, which she considers a divine gift.
As for her daughter, Pinkett Smith sees a reflection of herself. She described Willow as a spirited and energetic individual, likening her to the fire that burns within her own soul. Pinkett Smith admires Willow's straightforward nature, appreciating how she doesn't engage in pretense and always speaks her mind. Additionally, Pinkett Smith cherishes the love that Willow has for her.