Jada Pinkett Smith's Mother Talks Regret Over Losing Years With Her Due To Addiction

BYErika Marie26.9K Views
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Jada Pinkett Smith, Adrienne Banfield-Norris
Adrienne Banfield-Norris also helped actor Tommy Davidson when he hit rock bottom.

It's rare that guests of Red Table Talk can sit through a discussion without shedding a tear or two, but the outpouring of emotion was overwhelming on Monday. The most recent episode featured Jada Pinkett Smith and her mother Adrienne Banfield-Norris along with famed comedic actor Tommy Davidson. 

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Davidson shared the story of his journey, beginning with being a toddler found in the trash by a white woman who would later adopt him into her family. The actor spoke about connecting with his birth mother and losing his beloved adoptive mother to cancer, and during the conversation, the topic of losing and missing out on precious moments stirred something in Adrienne.

Although Adrienne and Jada have a healthy, loving, and supportive relationship now, Jada's upbringing was quite the opposite. Adrienne is a recovering addict, as is Tommy, and she mentioned that it's been painful for her to see Jada with her children because Adrienne sees what she missed out on. "I'm happy for it and I'm proud of her, but, you know, the loss is just as much mine as it is [Jada's]," she said. "It's difficult."

Tommy also admitted that when he hit rock bottom, it was Adrienne who helped him through it. "I just want to thank you, that saved my life and that was one of the many things that happened that are the reasons why I’m here," he said. Watch the tearful exchange below.


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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