Jada Pinkett Smith allegedly threatened Will Smith’s longtime friend Bilaal Salaam, warning he would “end up missing” or “catch a bullet” if he continued discussing her private life.
The threats were cited in a new lawsuit filed by Salaam in Los Angeles Superior Court. Salaam is representing himself and seeking $3 million as he accuses Pinkett Smith of intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Salaam describes himself as a close friend of Will Smith for nearly 40 years, citing the actor’s memoir and public remarks by D.L. Hughley.
Per his filing, the confrontation took place in September 2021 in a Calabasas hotel lobby during Will Smith’s 53rd birthday gathering.
Salaam alleges Pinkett Smith, accompanied by seven associates, became verbally aggressive and demanded that he sign an NDA. He says one associate followed him to his car to continue issuing threats.
He claims the alleged threats triggered severe psychological and physical effects, including PTSD, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, significant weight gain, loss of a long-term relationship, and two years of self-imposed exile.
He also said his luxury jewelry brand, Bopulent, collapsed, and a planned memoir with a reported $500,000 advance was put on hold.
Salaam alleges additional threats after the 2022 Oscars incident, saying actor Duane Martin pressured him to assist with damage control and warned of repercussions from Pinkett Smith if he refused. He claims three associates also threatened him.
The suit also accuses Pinkett Smith of discrediting him by denying she ever saw Will Smith engage in intimate behaviour with men, despite Salaam releasing a video he says contradicts her.
He claims her comments fueled ridicule, reputational damage, and accusations of extortion, and he plans to file additional claims against Will Smith.
