On New Year’s Day, it’s common to see people posting their resolutions and intentions for the year ahead, but doing so backfired for one celebrity. Jada Pinkett-Smith, who’s been in the headlines a bunch lately as she promotes her memoir with a collection of eyebrow-raising pull quotes, posted a selfie showing off her latest style innovation, but got a slightly different than perhaps she had hoped.
“I think jean leg warmers is where it’s at for me in 2024,” she wrote. However, the combination of Pinkett-Smith’s doe fur-patterned puffer jacket with her signature bald look and aviator shades brought to mind another popular social media personality: Fat Joe. Many of the commenters wondered whether the Bronx rapper had more weight, while others imagined Jada’s husband Will Smith’s reaction.
The comparisons were enough to raise “Fat Joe” to the top of Twitter’s trending topics, along with “Pitbull” and “Jada.” And down near the bottom of the top 30, another reference to the photo appeared as of press time: “Skinny Joe,” fans’ apparent new nickname for Jada Pinkett-Smith.
Jada Pinkett-Smith has been the butt of jokes all year as a result of her press tour, but at least this time, they aren’t ALL about her and Will’s unconventional marriage.
These days, Will Smith is known for his public, if messy, marriage to Jada Pinkett Smith. Chance the Rapper, Nicki Minaj, and J. Cole are among the list of rappers to name-drop the Hollywood power couple in their tracks. What many Will Smith fans may not know, however, is that the rapper-turned-actor dated several other famous women before settling down and starting a family. Here’s a brief look into the lost loves, quick flings, and what-ifs of Will Smith’s dating history.
Will Smith met fellow screen performer Sheree Zampino while he was leading The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air in 1991. Shortly after meeting, the pair began a romance, marrying in 1992. In November 1992, Zampino gave birth to Smith’s first son, Trey. Despite their quick romance and budding family, it soon became clear that the couple was not right for one another. They resolved to divorce in 1995.
Smith has referred to his divorce as the greatest hardship in his adult life. The actor lamented feeling like a failure for not making the marriage work. Of course, the Academy Award winner later recognized that the divorce was necessary in his journey. The pair have served as model co-parents to Trey and continue to get along well to this day. Smith even referred to Zampino as the “best baby mama ever” in a 2018 Instagram post.
Garcelle Beauvais (Early 1990s)
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 24: Actress Garcelle Beauvais attends the 2015 BET Awards Debra Lee Pre-Dinner. At Sunset Tower Hotel on June 24, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Mark Davis/BET/Getty Images for BET)
Sheree Zampino wasn’t the only actress Will Smith entangled with during his tenure as the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. During the early 1990s, Smith met Haitian-American actress Garcelle Beauvais on set as she guest starred in several episodes of the hit sitcom. While the dates surrounding the relationship remain fuzzy, sources seem to indicate that the pair saw one another casually on a number of occasions.
The actress claimed she dated Will while he was still married to his first wife. Allegedly, Beauvais called off the relationship after experiencing an awkward encounter with Will’s family. Reportedly, Smith was on speakerphone with Garcelle while his son was in the car, and young Trey asked, “Is that Miss Jada?” This moment became a signal for Beauvais to move on from the short-lived relationship and also hinted at future developments in Will Smith’s love life.
Tyra Banks (1993-1994)
Tyra Banks and Will Smith during 1997 Kid’s Choice Awards in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
Smith had dated outside his first marriage on several occasions, with one notable relationship including supermodel Tyra Banks. They met when Banks auditioned for a role on The Fresh Prince, which served as her first television acting job. The pair saw each other casually for roughly one year but never took their relationship to the next level. While there is limited information about the affair, it is noteworthy that Smith’s divorce was finalized in 1995, merely a year after he and Banks had decided to end their relationship.
Jada Pinkett Smith (1995-Present?)
BURBANK, CA – OCTOBER 22: (L-R) Actors Trey Smith and Jaden Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, singer Willow Smith and actor Will Smith. Attend the Environmental Media Association 26th Annual EMA Awards Presented By Toyota, Lexus And Calvert at Warner Bros. Studios on October 22, 2016 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images for Environmental Media Association )
Smith first met Jada Pinkett in 1994, sharing a thought-provoking discussion over dinner. Unlike many of Smith’s other flings, the pair didn’t begin seeing each other romantically until after his divorce was finalized in 1995—the pair dated for two years before marrying in 1997. Years later, Jada revealed that she was hesitant to marry and only agreed to go through with the wedding because she was pregnant at the time.
Together, Will and Jada share two children, Jaden and Willow. Their children have each explored careers in the arts, including acting and music creation. Though the family has had a series of public ups and downs, Will and Jada remain married. Recently, Jada claimed that she and Will have been separated since 2016 and no longer live together, though the pair have not initiated divorce proceedings.
“At The Party” rapper Kid Cudi loves to announce his grandiose plans for the following years with fans online. While many things on his goal board for 2023 came true. Other pursuits, such as his Moon Man’s Landing Festival and Insano album, were delayed. Cudi is notorious for considering things (i.e., his interest in stand-up comedy), but it seems his next set of creative ideas is on track for 2024.
According to a series of posts shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) page, next year, the entertainer plans on releasing a memoir with a global promotional book tour to support it in addition to his previous musical obligations. “My memoir is called CUDI By Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi. My hope is to drop it next year around September. Going through my life and the journey it has, so far, bringing me so much peace,” wrote the rapper.
“I know this book will inspire you to live your life to the fullest every chance you get, reach for your dreams, and work hard to bring them to reality and keep God close. Because through all the ups and downs, He’s the one that’s never left you alone. My hope is that after you read this, you’ll have the confidence to bet on yourself and strive to live life as a better human on this planet and spread love,” he continued.
My memoir is called CUDI By Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi
My hope is to drop it next year around Sept. Goin thru my life and the journey its been so far is bringing me so much peace just talkin about certain things and how they made me feel. Moments, people, aging, the fun, the…
Cudi has not released an official date, but he’s sure about the September 2024 time frame based on his interaction with a curious fan.
U know idk what it is really! The fall always seems like my time. Ive only had a couple summer releases, I wanna drop one summer again one day https://t.co/krEfbMdpcZ
Cudi made it clear that he wants to fully embrace the published work once it is released with a full-on book tour. “I’ll be doing a little tour to bookstores around the globe doing signings. So, be on the lookout,” urged the songwriter.
Ill be doin a lil tour to bookstores around the globe doin signings so be on the look out! https://t.co/JHLyOJBTHg
In a follow up statement, Brother Bilaal is doubling down on his initial claims. Brother Bilaal, the former assistant and friend of Will Smith, has doubled down on his explosive claims involving mega-stars Will Smith and Duane Martin. In an exclusive interview with gossip blogger Tasha K, Brother Bilaal opened up about the alleged scandal that has taken the entertainment industry by storm. He asserted in November that Will Smith and Duane Martin had sex. “The reason Will and Jada responded, they know its true,” Brother Bilaal said on the platform with Tasha K. “They responded in less than 9 hours. He knows what I saw in that dressing room. Jada listen, in 2 weeks, if you don’t sue me in two weeks, if Tasha K will have me, I’m back here and I’m dropping evidence.”
Brother Bilaal proceeded to call Jada’s bluff and encouraged her to sue him. He claims that he has evidence and that if she doesn’t take action against him, he’s going to reveal it. “You said I extorted you, you said it was a money shakedown,” he said, referring to Jada’s comments on Breakfast Club. “Let’s get into a little more of it. Jada, you a bald head liar and a drug addict. You told the world you were gonna sue me.” Despite vehement denials from both Will Smith and Jada, claiming that Bilaal just wants money, he remains confident in his allegations. He says he’s driven by a commitment to revealing the truth, allegedly.
The controversial remarks were first made in November, as HotNewHipHop previously reported. “I opened the door to Duane’s dressing room, and that’s when I see Duane having a*al s*x with Will,” Brother Bilaal disclosed in the interview. “There was a couch, and Will was bent over the couch, and Duane was standing up killing him, murdering him. It was murder in there.” These graphic allegations have not only ignited a firestorm of controversy but have also thrust Brother Bilaal into the spotlight. However, social media has come to Will’s defense. “Rather it’s true or not we love Will. Thank you next,” one person commented.
While the sensational nature of the claims has led to skepticism in some quarters, the interview shed light on Brother Bilaal’s unwavering conviction. “Whew, that’s messed up. I wish people would leave Will & Jada alone,” another person wrote. “And???? Was anyone hurt ?? What’s his point sharing these Grown people business??? Is it gone take money out their pockets?? Will it take movie roles from Will?? It probably get him more roles in Hollyweird,” another said. As the controversy escalates, Brother Bilaal’s boldness has sparked criticism. Stay tuned to HotNewHipHop for updates to this story.
In a recent BET Talks interview, Rick Ross didn’t hold back. He addressed Jada Pinkett Smith’s recent comments about 2Pac’s battle with Alopecia, a condition she also shares. Ricky Rozay himself humorously put Smith on blast, emphasizing the need to let the rap legend rest in peace. Ross, while expressing his frustration with a touch of humor, struggled with the pronunciation of “Alopecia.” He made light of the situation by continuing his remarks: “At the end of the day, come on man, come on Jada. Let 2Pac rest in peace. Appaleesha — what did she say he got?”
Upon a correction from the host, Ross continued with a light-hearted tone, “Tell me what this is? But we ain’t need to know that. Dawg a legend. He been dead 30 years. Apaleesha? Alopecia.” In addition to his humorous take on the situation, the MMG mogul offered his own suggestion for Smith’s revelations, saying, “She should’ve told us a Will [Smith] story. Talk about your husband, baby. You married him. Tell us how you fell walking down the carpet one time and we ain’t know you ain’t have on no panties or something.”
Ross’s comments reflect a sentiment shared by many fans and fellow artists who believe that certain details about 2Pac’s personal life should be left in the past to honor his legacy. As the debate around the appropriate boundaries of discussing departed icons continues, Rick Ross adds his voice to those advocating for preserving the memory of the legendary rapper without unnecessary details. Moreover this isn’t the first time he’s said something about wanting Jada to remain quiet.
In an interview last month with Rolling Stone, the rapper didn’t hold back. He expressed sentiments about Jada’s book tour, and how he disapproved. “I don’t think I agree with Jada Pinkett,” he said. “To me, she’s psychologically lost and needs some counseling. Jesus! What are you going to tell us next? When you tell us you haven’t been together in six years, you haven’t had sex in this many years, you don’t have a prenuptial agreement — OK, what’s next?” Do you agree with Rick Ross on this subject? Let us know on HNHH!
Jada Pinkett Smith states that Will Smith’s Oscar slap saved her marriage. In a conversation with Daily Mail, Pinkett Smith said Will’s actions made her realize she would “never leave him.”
“That moment of the shit hitting the fan is when you see where you really are,” Jada said. “After all those years trying to figure out if I would leave Will’s side, it took that slap for me to see I will never leave him. Who knows where our relationship would be if that hadn’t happened?”
She revealed that the slap now carries the nickname of the “holy slap” to her.
Speaking with Drew Barrymore on her daytime talk show, Pinkett Smith said, “We’re staying together forever.”
“I think that one of those next stages in relationships is when you really learn how to accept yourself fully, you really learn how to accept your partner fully as well,” Jada said, according to Decider. “That’s been a journey all in itself.”
Two months ago, Will Smith surprised Jada Pinkett Smith on her book tour stop in Baltimore. The event was at the Enoch Pratt Free Libary, where the Baltimore Sun delivered details of what was said.
“I just really wanted to come out and just be here and hold it down for you the way you have held it down for me,” Smith said. “We have had a very, very long and tumultuous [relationship]. We call it ‘brutiful.’ It was brutal and beautiful at the same time.”
Will Smith has an official quote regarding various reveals from Jada Pinkett Smith across the media last week. The New York Times quoted the A-list actor in another interview with his wife.
“When you’ve been with someone for more than half of your life, a sort of emotional blindness sets in, and you can all too easily lose your sensitivity to their hidden nuances and subtle beauties,” Smith said.
Smith added a letter to another appearance of an estranged wife, which will be on the On Purpose podcast hosted by Jay Shetty.
“I applaud and honor you. If I had read this book 30 years ago, I definitely would’ve hugged you more,” Smith wrote. “I’ll start now. Welcome to the Authors Club. I love you endlessly. Now go get some Merlot and take a rest.”
Jada Pinkett Smith says that Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars ceremony saved their marriage. Speaking with the Daily Mail for an interview published on Saturday, she admitted that she calls the incident the “holy slap” “because so many positive things came after it.”
“After all those years trying to figure out if I would leave Will’s side, it took that slap for me to see I will never leave him,” she told the outlet. “Who knows where our relationship would be if that hadn’t happened?”
TOPSHOT – US actor Will Smith (R) slaps US actor Chris Rock onstage during the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 27, 2022. (Photo by Robyn Beck / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)
It’s not the first time that Jada has reflected positively on the Oscars slap. Appearing on CBS Mornings, last month, she recalled: “I might not have walked in there as his wife, but I left that night as his wife. And as I sit here today, I am going to be by his side always.” The comments came after Jada previously revealed the bombshell that she and Will separated back in 2016. Explaining that decision to CBS, she further said: “I needed time for emotional maturity. First of all, I was in a deep healing process, and I think I needed to really dissolve some false ideas of what marriage is, false ideas of what I thought Will needed to be for me, versus what I needed to learn to be for myself in order to have a loving relationship.”
Jada’s interview with the Daily Mail comes after the release of her new memoir, Worthy. She’s been promoting the candid book in interviews for weeks. Be on the lookout for further updates on Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith’s marriage on HotNewHipHop.
Will Smith said he’s “deeply human” while discussing the “tons of mistakes” he’s made throughout his life. He spoke about his public image during a candid conversation at the Red Sea International Film Festival on Saturday.
“I have made tons of mistakes,” he said. “Fame is a unique monster. You can’t get too excited when people say good things about you because then when people say bad things about you, you struggle and suffer more. I have to be clear about who I am and what I am attempting to do in the world.” From there, added: “I have to be clear about who I am and what I am attempting to do in the world, I cannot depend on others applauding me for me to stay focused on my mission. And at the same time, I am deeply human. And I am in the process of perfecting my virtue.”
Will Smith Speaks At The Red Sea International Film Festival
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 02: Will Smith and Raya Abirached speak on stage at In Conversation with Will Smith during the Red Sea International Film Festival 2023 on December 02, 2023 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images for The Red Sea International Film Festival)
His comments come after his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, recently revealed that the two have been separated for seven years. In her new memoir, Worthy, Jada reflected on Will slapping Chris Rock onstage at the 2022 Oscars and admitted that the incident gave her a newfound respect for her husband. The Academy banned Will from all of its events for 10 years in response to the move.
Elsewhere during his discussion at the Red Sea International Film Festival, Will confirmed that he’s working on a sequel to I Am Legend with Michael B. Jordan. He revealed that he has submitted the script and has a phone call scheduled with the Creed actor. Be on the lookout for further updates on Will Smith on HotNewHipHop.
Don’t look for Jada Pinkett Smith and WIll Smith to get divorced. Speaking with Drew Barrymore on her daytime talk show, Pinkett Smith said, “We’re staying together forever.”
“I think that one of those next stages in relationships is when you really learn how to accept yourself fully, you really learn how to accept your partner fully as well,” Jada said, according to Decider. “That’s been a journey all in itself.”
Last month, Will Smith surprised Jada Pinkett Smith on her book tour stop in Baltimore. The event was at the Enoch Pratt Free Libary, where the Baltimore Sun delivered details of what was said.
“I just really wanted to come out and just be here and hold it down for you the way you have held it down for me,” Smith said. “We have had a very, very long and tumultuous [relationship]. We call it ‘brutiful.’ It was brutal and beautiful at the same time.”
Will Smith has an official quote regarding various reveals from Jada Pinkett Smith across the media last week. The New York Times quoted the A-list actor in another interview with his wife.
“When you’ve been with someone for more than half of your life, a sort of emotional blindness sets in, and you can all too easily lose your sensitivity to their hidden nuances and subtle beauties,” Smith said.
Smith added a letter to another appearance of an estranged wife, which will be on the On Purpose podcast hosted by Jay Shetty.
“I applaud and honor you. If I had read this book 30 years ago, I definitely would’ve hugged you more,” Smith wrote. “I’ll start now. Welcome to the Authors Club. I love you endlessly. Now go get some Merlot and take a rest.”
Jada Pinkett Smith says that she and Will Smith are in a stage of acceptance of one another. She discussed where the marriage between the two stands during an interview on the latest episode of The Drew Barrymore Show on Tuesday. The update comes after the bombshell story from earlier this year, at which time she revealed the two had been secretly separated for years.
“I think that one of those next stages in relationships is when you really learn how to accept yourself fully, you really learn how to accept your partner fully as well,” Jada told Barrymore as noted by Decider. “That’s been a journey all in itself.” She added that she’s learned to “love Will as he is” and herself. “We’re staying together forever,” she concluded.
Jada Pinkett Smith & Will Smith Attend “Emancipation” Premiere
US actor Will Smith and his wife actress Jada Pinkett Smith arrive for the premiere of Apple Original Films’ “Emancipation” at the Regency Village Theatre in Westwood, California, on November 30, 2022. (Photo by Michael Tran / AFP) (Photo by MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Jada first revealed the rift in her relationship with Will while discussing the actor’s infamous Oscars slap. She explained that Will referring to her as his “wife” caught her off guard. “We haven’t called each other husband and wife in a long time,” she told Hoda Kotb while promoting her memoir, Worthy. She added: “When I was sitting at the Oscars, it clicked in. As soon as I was like, ‘Oh snap, you hit Chris?’ I was like, I’m riding with you. I didn’t come into this place as your wife, but I’m leaving here as your wife because we got a storm we’re going to have to deal with together. I am not gonna leave your side.”
Jada Pinkett Smith Sits Down With Drew Barrymore
Check out a portion of Jada’s conversation with Drew Barrymore above. Elsewhere in the interview, she discusses her new book, growing up with trauma, relating to her kids, and more. Be on the lookout for further updates on Jada and Will’s marriage on HotNewHipHop.
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