Health awareness campaigns often gain momentum when public figures use their platforms to share personal experiences. Recently, Jada Pinkett Smith, alongside her family, brought much-needed attention to the importance of preventive care—particularly colon health—through a candid episode of Red Table Talk. Joined by her mother Adrienne Banfield-Norris and her son Jaden Smith, Jada invited viewers to witness her first colonoscopy, underscoring the importance of early detection and routine screenings.
A Family Approach to Health Education
Jada Pinkett Smith, co-host of Red Table Talk, a Facebook Watch series known for tackling important but often sensitive topics, chose to document her first colonoscopy as a way to raise awareness about the significance of gastrointestinal health. In a segment shared by PEOPLE Magazine, Jada, age 50, is seen post-procedure expressing her sense of calm and well-being, even while feeling the residual effects of anesthesia. She recounts the experience with light-hearted honesty, helping demystify a procedure that many often delay or avoid out of fear or discomfort.
Her willingness to show vulnerability is a significant step in reducing stigma around colon health. Colonoscopy screenings can detect precancerous polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities, often before any symptoms present. Early detection remains one of the most effective tools in preventing colorectal cancer, the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Will Smith’s Public Health Journey
Jada’s initiative builds on a similar health awareness effort made by her husband, Will Smith, in 2019. In a widely viewed video posted to his official YouTube channel, Will documented his own colonoscopy experience. During the procedure, doctors found and removed a precancerous polyp. Will’s video was praised for its transparency and helped destigmatize colonoscopy screenings, especially among African American men, a group that statistically faces higher risks for colorectal cancer.
As of 2025, the video has received millions of views and continues to serve as an educational tool. Will emphasized the importance of not only undergoing the procedure but also discussing the outcomes openly to encourage others to prioritize their health.
According to the American Cancer Society, regular screenings beginning at age 45 are recommended for individuals at average risk of colorectal cancer. For those with a family history or other risk factors, doctors may suggest earlier or more frequent testing.
Medical Experts Weigh In
In the Red Table Talk episode, Jada and her family were joined by medical professionals who offered expert commentary on digestive wellness. The discussion covered topics such as gut microbiota, the role of diet in gastrointestinal health, and the emotional and psychological components of wellness. Including qualified voices added scientific context to the personal stories and made the episode a valuable resource for health education.
Dr. Mahesh Seetharam, a board-certified gastroenterologist not affiliated with the show but interviewed by Healthline in relation to celebrity health outreach, stated that public figures play a pivotal role in motivating others to seek preventive care. “When celebrities like the Smiths share their own journeys, it can remove fear and encourage compliance with medical recommendations,” he explained.
Importance of Colonoscopy Screenings
Colonoscopies are one of the most effective diagnostic tools for identifying early signs of colorectal cancer. The procedure typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes and allows doctors to view the interior lining of the colon and rectum. If polyps or abnormal growths are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure, significantly reducing cancer risk.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all adults begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45. For individuals with increased risk—such as those with a family history, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic syndromes—screenings may begin earlier.
According to a 2020 study by the American Gastroenterological Association, nearly 40% of eligible adults in the U.S. are not up to date on recommended colorectal cancer screenings. This underscores the need for increased public awareness and accessible healthcare education.
A Broader Message on Wellness
Beyond colon health, the Smith family’s efforts reflect a broader message about taking control of one’s well-being. Jada Pinkett Smith has long advocated for transparency and vulnerability through her talk show, which has featured conversations about mental health, substance use, trauma, and personal growth.
Her decision to undergo a colonoscopy on-camera is not only about physical health but also about empowering individuals to make informed decisions without fear or shame. By including her son Jaden and mother Adrienne in the conversation, she emphasized that health is a family concern and that intergenerational dialogue is crucial for lasting change.
Jaden Smith, known for his work in sustainability and wellness, also shared insights into how diet and lifestyle impact gut health, highlighting the role of plant-based foods, hydration, and stress reduction.
Encouraging Proactive Health Choices
The Smith family’s public health initiatives serve as a reminder that preventive care can save lives. Whether it’s undergoing a colonoscopy or having an open conversation with loved ones, every step toward awareness and action contributes to a healthier society.
By using their platform to destigmatize medical procedures and encourage early detection, Will and Jada Pinkett Smith are helping to shift public perceptions around wellness. They are also helping dismantle barriers—both psychological and cultural—that often prevent individuals from seeking the care they need.
Organizations like the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and the American Cancer Society provide resources for those interested in learning more about when to screen, what to expect, and how to advocate for their own health.
Final Thoughts
In a media environment often dominated by entertainment and speculation, the Smiths’ focus on health education is a welcome and impactful change. Their efforts to bring transparency and humanity to healthcare conversations have already influenced millions.
As more public figures follow their lead, awareness of preventive care—especially for life-threatening conditions like colorectal cancer—will likely continue to rise. The takeaway is simple but powerful: prioritize your health, talk to your doctor, and don’t wait for symptoms to take action.
Key Resources:
-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal
-
American Cancer Society – www.cancer.org
-
Colorectal Cancer Alliance – www.ccalliance.org
