Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith have been secretly separated since 2016 but continue to maintain a strong bond. Despite their separation, Will Smith, 55, considers Jada one of the "ride-or-die" people in his life, a term denoting unwavering support. This revelation came during a conversation with Entertainment Tonight at a screening of his film "Bad Boys: Ride or Die." Jada is the mother of their children, Jaden Smith, 25, and Willow Smith, 23.
In October, Jada Pinkett Smith disclosed their separation but clarified there were no plans for divorce. Appearing on the Today Show, she expressed that they felt "exhausted with trying" to work on their marriage but have continued to support each other. In her book, "Worthy," she describes the separation as a "divorce" in practice, although no legal steps were taken.
The couple's marriage has faced public scrutiny, notably in 2020, when Jada admitted to an affair with singer August Alsina. The situation gained further attention in 2022 when Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars over a joke about Jada's hair. Speaking to Daily Mail's YOU Magazine, Jada referred to the incident as the "holy slap," suggesting it reinforced her bond with Will.
Despite living separately, the couple remains committed to figuring out their relationship, bolstered by the support of their children.