Jada Pinkett Smith @JadaPinkettSmith Instagram
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Jada Pinkett Smith shares her side of the story, addressing the Oscars incident, her relationship with Chris Rock, and the state of her marriage with Will Smith.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Jada Pinkett Smith has broken her silence about the Oscars incident involving her husband, Will Smith, and comedian Chris Rock. The incident occurred on March 27, 2022, when Smith struck Rock onstage at the Oscars after a joke made about Pinkett Smith. In this candid conversation, Pinkett Smith sheds light on her perspective, the events leading up to the incident, and her relationship with Rock.
Pinkett Smith, 52, revealed that she hasn't spoken to Chris Rock since the incident but expressed her hope for resolution and peace. She believes there was a misunderstanding stemming from her support of the #OscarsSoWhite movement in 2016, during which Rock made jokes about her. Pinkett Smith acknowledged that she might not have fully recognized the pressure Rock was under at the time and expressed regret for not reaching out to him.
The interview also touched on a surprising revelation: Chris Rock had once asked Pinkett Smith out on a date. According to Pinkett Smith, Rock called her during a period when rumors of her divorce with Will Smith were circulating. However, she clarified that the rumors were untrue, and Rock promptly apologized upon learning the truth.
In the interview, Pinkett Smith disclosed the emotional turmoil she experienced during the Oscars incident, describing her initial disbelief and subsequent attempts to remain composed for the people around her. She emphasized her commitment to supporting Will Smith while allowing him to navigate his path, highlighting her personal journey toward self-acceptance.
This revelation comes amidst Will Smith's public apology for the Oscars incident, which led to his resignation from the Academy and a 10-year ban from attending its events. Pinkett Smith revealed that she and Will have been separated for seven years but clarified that it wasn't "a divorce on paper." She affirmed her determination to work through their challenges together and support each other.
For now, the world awaits Chris Rock's response to Pinkett Smith's revelations as this Hollywood saga continues to unfold.
reports by Jason Sheeler and Benjamin VanHoose: Full article and video @People
