By Samantha Rockson

Children can bring their fair share of stress (mine included), but every now and then they surprise you in the best way. I recently had a conversation with my son about Jada and Will’s relationship, and although our views were very different, he expressed himself so clearly that he almost changed my perspective.

It all started when my son was listening to something and I casually mentioned that the person involved had an “entanglement” with Jada. Well—he exploded into full commentary mode. He had already heard about it and had very strong opinions. His immediate reactions included:

  • “What’s an entanglement?”
  • “What kind of marriage is that?”
  • “Look at their children.”
  • “Jada is taking the p*** out of Will.”

He had watched the discussion and was genuinely outraged by Jada’s explanation of her “entanglement.”

I, on the other hand, took a more holistic view. Understanding the long‑term nature of relationships—and how they evolve—I wasn’t as shocked. Our conversation was fascinating, but the point he made that really made me pause was his concern about the impact their situationship has had on their children.

My argument was that Jada and Will clearly have an understanding. For them, keeping the family unit together seems more important than who is sleeping with whom or whether they are still “in love”—whatever love even means (to quote Prince Charles). Many long‑term relationships go through difficult phases where one or both partners fall out of romantic love, and sometimes cheating happens. My view was that Jada and Will appear to have an agreement that allows them to live their lives respectfully. If it works for them, why is it anyone else’s business?

My son wasn’t having it. His first point was that young people are extremely impressionable. He argued that many young girls might assume this is what a relationship should look like—“do whatever you want as long as it makes you happy.” He even mentioned a trend among young people called “side n****r” (a whole other conversation).

His second point was about the children. He felt they seem confused, and that it’s not surprising given the complexity of their parents’ relationship. He went as far as to say it might have been better for the children if Will and Jada had divorced, rather than growing up knowing both parents were involved with other people while still presenting as a family unit.

I must admit—he made some solid points (cue proud‑mum moment). Still, many people might argue that keeping the family together at all costs is better than divorce. Others might say couples should do whatever works for them, but perhaps keep certain things away from their children, as many families do.

Either way, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your views on our social media pages, and you may be invited to join a Your Magazine conversation on the topic of Entanglements.

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