Terry McMillan, author of How Stella Got Her Groove Back, has publicly accused Will Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, of ‘exploiting’ their children, Jaden and Willow.
The acclaimed writer criticized the pairs parenting skills on a post on Twitter.
She wrote, “The Smith children already act like child stars. There’s an arrogance in their demeanor and behavior. I find it incredibly sad. It feels like the Smith children are being pimped and exploited. Or, they’re already hungry for fame. What about 4th grade?”
She adds, “A lot of A-list movie stars shielded their children from the Hollywood-world until they were old enough to decide. Look at those who didn’t. Look at Lindsay. Phoenix, to name but a few. They miss out on childhood. It’s more important than fame.”
She continued, “These kids don’t already know what they love. Total bulls**t. They’re not prodigies. They think Hollywood is real. Why don’t they do a remake of The Little Rascals and call it a day? Or, come up with an original film with some ethnic pride. Come on.”
This tweet came after Willow Smith was announced to be playing the lead in a remake of Annie, produced by her parents.
McMillan has since then apologized for her harsh comments:
“Twitter is not the best forum to express some things. I didn’t know folks would take my opinion so personally.”
I agree with Terry. The Smiths seem to have bought into the Hollywood “thing”. They are sacrificing their childrens childhood for fame. I feel very sorry for the children.
i agree with some of what she said
I agree 100% with what she said-too bad she didn’t stand by her comments. Those kids are incredibly arrogant-that happens when everyone tells you how wonderful and perfect you are.
Will and Jada had time to start Willow’s career-what’s the rush? She’s only 10! It’s o.k. to be proud of your kids but they’re taking it to a whole other level. They better hope their kids turn out o.k. and don’t go down the path of other child starrs.
It dont matter if they are arrogant they are not your kids. Hell u have people out there that dont have nothing and still are arrogant. That family is doing well. I say keep it going and looks like they are happy doing what they do. And there is no need to feel sorry for those kids they have alot going for themselves. And i am pretty sure school and being a kid comes alone with there fame. Will and Jada seem to be good parents and is raising their children well.