In recent days, Will Smith has found himself at the center of public scrutiny following a provocative performance with Spanish singer India Martínez at Univision’s 37th Premio Lo Nuestro Awards in Miami. The duo’s steamy rendition of their collaborative track “First Love” featured intimate choreography and a staged near-kiss, sparking widespread debate about appropriateness and professionalism.

The Performance That Sparked Controversy

On February 20, 2025, Will Smith and India Martínez took the stage to perform “First Love,” a song they released on Valentine’s Day. The performance was marked by sensual dance moves and moments where the two artists appeared to lean in for a kiss, only to pull away, adding to the dramatic effect. This display led to a flurry of reactions on social media, with some fans labeling Smith’s behavior as “creepy” and “cringe,” while others defended the performance as a theatrical act.

Public Reaction and Criticism

The performance quickly became a hot topic online. Critics argued that Smith’s actions were inappropriate, especially considering his marital status and public persona. One social media user commented, “This is the worst,” while another added, “Inappropriate, even if it is entertainment.”

Some viewers compared the moment to an awkward karaoke performance, with remarks like, “It’s like someone’s dad’s on karaoke with a drunk local woman.”

However, not all feedback was negative. Some fans defended Smith, referencing past events in his personal life. One user noted, “Jada better let Will Smith have his fun,” while another stated, “As much as Jada has done, she better hush her mouth and let Will have this.”

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Complex Relationship

The controversy surrounding the performance is further intensified by the complexities of Will Smith’s marriage to Jada Pinkett Smith. In 2023, Jada revealed that she and Will had been living separately since 2016, though they had not legally divorced. She described their separation as a “divorce,” stating, “It was not a divorce on paper. But it was a divorce.”

Despite their separation, the couple has maintained a united front in public, often attending events together and supporting each other’s endeavors. They share two children, Jaden and Willow, and have been open about the challenges and evolutions in their relationship. Jada has mentioned that they are “still figuring it out” and have “deep love for each other.”

The 2022 Oscars Incident

The dynamics of Will and Jada’s relationship were thrust into the global spotlight during the 2022 Oscars. Will Smith infamously slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage after Rock made a joke about Jada’s shaved head, a result of her alopecia. This incident led to significant backlash, with Will receiving a 10-year ban from attending the Academy Awards.

Jada later expressed shock over the incident, stating she initially thought it was a skit.

India Martínez’s Perspective

For India Martínez, the performance with Will Smith has catapulted her into international headlines. The Spanish singer, known for blending flamenco with pop, expressed excitement about collaborating with Smith. She shared moments from their performance on social media, quoting lyrics from “First Love” and highlighting the passion they brought to the stage.

The Role of Sheree Zampino

Amid the controversy, attention has also turned to Sheree Zampino, Will Smith’s ex-wife. While there is no direct evidence from the provided sources indicating that Zampino publicly criticized Smith for his performance with Martínez, her past comments about their relationship dynamics have resurfaced. Zampino has previously spoken about co-parenting their son, Trey, and maintaining a respectful relationship with both Will and Jada. However, there is no current information suggesting she has weighed in on this specific incident.

The Entertainment Industry’s Perspective

Industry insiders have noted that such provocative performances are not uncommon in the entertainment world. Artists often push boundaries to garner attention and spark conversations. However, when personal lives are as public as those of the Smiths, the line between performance and personal conduct becomes blurred, leading to heightened scrutiny.

Conclusion

Will Smith’s recent performance with India Martínez has reignited discussions about his personal life, professional choices, and the intricate dynamics of his marriage to Jada Pinkett Smith. While some view the act as a mere performance, others perceive it as a reflection of deeper personal issues. As with many public figures, the intersection of personal and professional lives often leads to public debate, highlighting the challenges celebrities face in maintaining boundaries between the two.