Jada Pinkett Smith Says 'Oscar Slap' Ended Separation From Will Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith has candidly shared that the controversial 'Oscar Slap' incident played a pivotal role in reuniting her and her estranged husband Will Smith.

The acclaimed actress continues to grab the attention of headlines in the media following the release of her memoir "Worthy" which seems to leave no stone unturned. The 52-year-old has recently shared an intimate glimpse into her journey of healing and growth within her marriage to the "Independence Day" star. 

Their marriage, which started in 1997, has seen its fair share of drama. However, none of that comes close to what the pair experienced since the release of Jada's book "Worthy." 

In a conversation on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," the "Red Table Talk" host opened up about her enduring connection with her husband. Despite their separation since 2016, the TV personality made it clear that Smith was a significant presence in her life, stating unequivocally, "That is still my man." 

During the interview, she reflected on the evolution of their relationship, emphasizing the profound impact the Oscars incident had on their togetherness. The mother-of-two revealed how this intense event unexpectedly brought them closer together. Calling that point in time a storm, she stated:

"And then the Oscars came and believe it or not, it's like — it's crazy how intense events can bring people together. Because once the Oscars happened, Will and I got closer." 

The "Menace II Society" actress also disclosed that even though she did not attend the event as Smith's wife, she made a powerful choice when the unexpected occurred. Deciding at that point to stand by his side, she shared:

"I knew in that moment that I wasn't going to leave his side and I knew in that moment that I didn't go to that theater as his wife but I was leaving as his wife and I was going to stand by his side no matter what. And that when I knew. I was like 'I love this man.'" 

The 52-year-old opened up about realizing the depth of her love for him and the process she took in dismantling idealized notions of marriage and accepting the reality of their union. 

Jada ultimately chose to see "Will in a brand new light" and explained that she coined the term "life partners" to describe their unique bond but emphasized, "He's my dude. He's my right hand." 

The Daytime Emmy Award winner eventually resolved that divorce was not on the card for them after transitioning from romanticized fantasies to a deeper, more grounded connection.

The television host reiterated this on Jay Shetty's podcast when he read a heartfelt note from Smith to his partner, expressing deep gratitude for her honesty in her memoir. During the pause taken to acknowledge the message, the "Set It Off" star responded playfully to her husband's suggestion, remarking:

"He knows I can’t have no Merlot. That’s beautiful. That’s why I can’t divorce that joker."

Apparently, in the statement sent as an email, the "Bad Boys" actor had reflected on the wide range of emotions he experienced while reading "Worthy." At the end of the emotional note, he humorously penned, "Welcome to the Authors Club. I love you endlessly. Now go get some Merlot and take a rest."

While candidly addressing aspects of her life and marriage, Pinkett-Smith fearlessly confronted persistent rumors of her and Will's sexuality.

With unflinching honesty, the "Gotham" actress shared her years of sexual exploration, effectively dispelling years of speculation. As she delved into details of her early years in Los Angeles at the beginning of her career, she stated:

"Now, there have always been rumors that I'm gay — that I like women. Maybe that had something to do with the clubs where I hung out, like the Catch, one of the leading LGBTQ+ spots in L.A. at this time that had nights for getting up and doing lip-syncs, and where I myself, on several occasions, got up onstage and lip-synched to all kinda of songs." 

Illuminating her evolution during those formative Hollywood years, she acknowledged that she "had a few sexual experiences with women, only to realize that when it comes to sex, I love men." 

Yet, the "Magic Mike XXL" actress emphasized that her appreciation for the beauty of women, "inside and out," remained unwavering, including her admiration of women of all backgrounds and ages.