Jaden Smith's Abrupt Exit When Kanye West Is Mentioned
In a strikingly awkward moment captured on video, actor and musician Jaden Smith demonstrated clear boundaries by walking away mid-question when interviewer Hardeman-Webb mentioned controversial rapper Kanye West. The incident occurred during a conversation about Smith's collaboration with footwear designer Steven Smith, who had an eight-year association with West's Yeezy brand before being fired in 2024.
The Viral Instagram Moment
The interaction, shared by Complex on Instagram, shows the journalist asking Jaden Smith about working with Steven Smith, who "designed Yeezy footwear with Ye." After a brief pause where Smith looked downward, the interviewer followed up with "What are y'all cooking up?" At the precise mention of Kanye West, Smith glanced up and immediately walked away without responding, creating a viral moment that has sparked widespread discussion about celebrity boundaries and associations.
Context: Kanye West's Recent Apology
This incident comes approximately one month after Kanye West's public apology for his history of making antisemitic remarks. West published a full-page advertisement in The Wall Street Journal titled "To Those I've Hurt," which was paid for by his Yeezy brand. In the letter, West attributed his erratic behavior and antisemitic comments to his bipolar disorder diagnosis, attempting to address the significant controversy surrounding his public statements.
Steven Smith's Critical Comments About West
The designer at the center of this story, Steven Smith, had previously worked extensively with Kanye West before their professional relationship ended. Following his 2024 firing from Yeezy, Smith told Fast Company that he believed West had "lost his mind" and described the entire Yeezy operation as "circling the drain." He further criticized West for surrounding himself with "toxic, C-grade losers," indicating significant tension between the former collaborators.
Jaden Smith's Fashion Industry Role
Meanwhile, Jaden Smith continues to expand his influence in the fashion world. In September 2025, he was appointed as a creative director for Christian Louboutin, according to an official press release. His responsibilities include overseeing the creation of four collections annually across men's shoes, leather goods, and accessories. Additionally, Smith will help develop the brand's visual and emotional identity across marketing campaigns, events, and experiences, marking a significant step in his fashion career.
The incident highlights the complex relationships within the entertainment and fashion industries, where personal boundaries, professional associations, and public controversies frequently intersect. Smith's decisive action in walking away suggests a deliberate distancing from the controversy surrounding Kanye West, while maintaining his focus on current creative partnerships and professional opportunities.
