In a candid preview of her upcoming NBC News prime-time special with Hoda Kotb, Jada Pinkett Smith opened up about her complex relationship with Will Smith. The special, airing on October 13, dives into the couple’s marriage, revealing that they have been living “completely separate lives” since 2016—nearly two decades after tying the knot in 1997. Pinkett Smith, whose upcoming memoir Worthy explores their journey, shared that while they are no longer romantically involved, they remain legally married.

When asked by Kotb why they hadn’t disclosed their separation sooner, Pinkett Smith explained that they were still navigating their partnership and weren’t ready to share the news. By 2016, the couple had reached a breaking point, feeling drained from trying to meet each other’s expectations.

Although Pinkett Smith has considered divorce, she has chosen not to pursue it, affirming, “There will never be a reason for us to get a divorce.”

Their marriage has often made headlines, including the revelation of Pinkett Smith’s “entanglement” with singer August Alsina, which the couple addressed in a 2020 episode of Red Table Talk. During the conversation, they admitted to experiencing a challenging period in their relationship prior to her involvement with Alsina.

Together, Will and Jada Pinkett Smith share two children, Jaden and Willow, while Will also has a son, Trey, from his previous marriage. In her memoir, Pinkett Smith reflects on her life’s journey, covering everything from her struggles with suicidal depression to her rediscovery of personal strength and her celebration of authentic feminine power. The book also delves into her high school friendship with rapper Tupac Shakur, offering readers an intimate look at her past and the experiences that shaped her.