‘She’s Grateful’: Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith Celebrate Actress’ Birthday Together Following a Few Controversial Months

Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith‘s bond appears stronger than ever, as the couple was spotted celebrating the actress’ 51st birthday following a rocky few months.

The pair made headlines in March after Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock at the 94th- Annual Academy Awards. The altercation happened after Rock, who was presenting an award for Best Documentary Feature that later went to Quest Love, joked about Pinkett Smith’s shaved head.

Following the controversial moment, Smith would ultimately face massive backlash from the Academy and fans alike. Since then, the couple has kept a relatively low profile after Smith’s numerous public apologies. That was until Sept. 19.

In an Instagram post shared on Pinkett Smith’s page, the duo, alongside close family and friends, was seen gathering at what appeared to be their home for “The Matrix Resurrections” star’s special day. The guest list included Pinkett Smith and Smith’s son Jaden Smith, Smith’s ex-wife Sheree Zampino and their son Trey Smith.

The clip showcased the group singing “Happy Birthday” as Pinkett Smith danced while basking in the love of everyone who was on hand. The video continued with Pinkett Smith blowing out her candles and giving an impromptu speech. The 51-year-old said, “I’m just grateful. I’m just deeply grateful.”

Smith later jumped in and said, “The end. She’s grateful.” In addition to the recording, Pinkett Smith took the time to thank everyone for the well-wishes she received. She wrote in the caption, “I’m so grateful for all the birthday love yesterday. Thank you.” As fans viewed the post, many continued to send love to Pinkett Smith.

“Happy Birthday my beautiful Jada!!!!!!!! Love uuuuu ALWAYS cheers to many more blessings to come your way.”

“Happy birthday!! wishing you the best!”

“Happy birthday Jada! Wishing you only the very best today and always.”

“Happy belated birthday dear Jada.”

Independent journalism doesn't fund itself.

We hope this story was worth your time. For over 14 years, Atlanta Black Star has stayed Black-owned and independently run. We didn't get here by waiting on ad budgets that were never built to prioritize us. Our readers did that.

Corporate support for Black media has always been thin. Outlets like ours get roughly 1% of the $170 billion spent on U.S. advertising each year, and that margin is shrinking further as advertisers walk back the DEI-linked commitments they made in 2020. That's the backdrop. It's not why we're asking.

We know a request for support isn't why you came here. But without readers choosing to fund this work directly, the depth of reporting we can do at home and abroad shrinks along with everyone else's. If you're not in a position to give, that doesn't change how much we value you as a reader.

If you are able to, a recurring contribution does more for us than a single one-time gift, because it lets us plan the next investigation instead of just the next invoice. It takes about 30 seconds, no long form, no account. Thank you for continuing to support independent journalism and freedom of the press.

Back to top