Jada Pinkett Smith is a 39-year-old wonder woman. Between being a wife to one of the most famous men in the world–Will Smith–to mothering two of the most famous child stars in the world–Jaden and Willow– she’s had her work cut out for her. The actress, who will star in the upcoming film HawthoRNe, opened up to Redbook about raising her kids and keeping her marriage fresh.

Jada Pinkett Smith Naked On Essence Cover

On putting family first:

“I had to make choices. Believe me, I would still be on the road with my band, Wicked Wisdom, and making as many movies as I can a year, and doing all sorts of other things if I didn’t have the responsibility of a family. But I have children with their own talents and dreams, and I know I have to be standing next to them for that journey.”

On giving up her dream of being a rockstar:

“It was excruciating, completely excruciating. When Jaden was auditioning for The Pursuit of Happyness, my band had just gotten an offer to open for Guns N’ Roses in Europe. For me, that was unbelievable. But the choice was: I could be a rock star, or I could be on the set with my son to make sure he was healthy and happy. We all know how that story ended!”

On raising her children in Hollywood:

“Let me tell you what I fear most: Them growing up like I did, in a house with drugs in a war zone, where if I walked out my door I could be shot. Hollywood ain’t nothing compared to that! Growing up in the streets of Baltimore, or the streets of Philly where Will grew up – I’d rather have my kids here. It still makes me nervous that they’re part of something that isn’t totally real, but it’s up to Will and me to teach them what’s real and what’s not.”

Check out some of Jada’s favorite family pictures HERE.

[image: Redbook]