On the latest episode of Red Table Talk, which aired on Wednesday, Jada Pinkett Smith invited viewers to join her on a very personal and important journey as she underwent her very first colonoscopy. The episode provides an intimate look at Smith’s experience, highlighting not just the procedure itself but also the broader topic of gut health, which she and her family consider essential to overall well-being. Throughout the episode, she is joined by her mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, and her son, Jaden Smith, who contribute both emotional support and thoughtful conversation. Medical professionals are also featured, offering viewers expert guidance on colon health, preparation for the procedure, and tips for maintaining digestive wellness.
In a clip shared exclusively with PEOPLE, Smith, who is 50 years old, opens up about her experience immediately following the colonoscopy. She explains that despite the lingering effects of the anesthesia, she feels an unexpected sense of calm and relief. “I feel so relaxed,” she says, her voice filled with genuine ease, “and honestly, I feel great.” Her openness about the procedure, and her willingness to bring it into the public conversation, underscores her commitment to promoting health awareness, particularly for women who may feel hesitant or anxious about undergoing such medical tests.
Throughout the episode, Smith also delves into discussions about the importance of maintaining a healthy gut, a topic she frames not only as a personal concern but as a vital aspect of overall health. Her mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, offers her perspective on wellness and aging, emphasizing how gut health can affect energy levels, mental clarity, and long-term health outcomes. Jaden Smith contributes as well, sharing his observations and encouraging an honest dialogue about preventive care and family health habits. Together, they foster a supportive environment that balances vulnerability with education, showing viewers that proactive health measures can be empowering rather than intimidating.
The episode doesn’t shy away from the real-life emotions surrounding medical procedures. Smith’s candid reflections reveal a combination of anticipation, anxiety, and ultimately, relief and empowerment. The inclusion of medical experts provides practical context, helping demystify the colonoscopy process and dispelling common myths that may discourage individuals from scheduling important preventive screenings. By integrating her personal experience with expert advice, Smith makes the subject accessible, relatable, and informative for audiences of all ages.
Smith’s willingness to publicly navigate a medical procedure that is often stigmatized demonstrates a larger commitment to transparency and health advocacy. Her conversation with her family highlights the importance of support systems during health-related experiences, illustrating that such procedures, while deeply personal, can be shared in ways that encourage others to prioritize their own well-being. As she recovers from the procedure, her reflection — feeling relaxed, comfortable, and positive — serves as a powerful message to viewers: taking care of one’s body, even through invasive procedures, can be a rewarding and enlightening experience.
By sharing her journey on Red Table Talk, Smith continues to use her platform to address topics that matter to everyday people. The episode emphasizes prevention, education, and the destigmatization of medical care, while also providing an intimate glimpse into her family dynamics. Her openness with her mother and son, combined with professional medical insights, creates a well-rounded, informative, and heartfelt conversation about health, wellness, and the importance of not delaying critical screenings.