Watch CBS News

Jada Pinkett Smith defends young stars on her Facebook page

Jada Pinkett Smith is biting back at the Bieber bullies, Rihanna reactionaries, Swift slammers and other online haters.

Smith wrote an extensive defense of Justin Bieber and other young artists, who are scrutinized online, on her Facebook page Sunday.

"Are we bullying our young artists?" asked Smith. "How can we ask for our young stars to have a high level of responsibility if we are not demonstrating that same level of responsibility towards them?...It is as if we have forgotten what it means to be young or even how to behave like good ol' grown folk."

In reference to Bieber, who has had to face paparazzi while on tour in London (and for who her son Jaden is the opening act), she said: "Is it okay to continually attack and criticize a famous 19-year-old who is simply trying to build a life, exercise his talents while figuring out what manhood and fame is all about as he carries the weight of supporting his family as well as providing the paychecks to others who depend on him to work so they can feed their families as well?"

The 41-year-old actress also went criticize others, including The Onion for calling 9-year-old Oscar nominee Quvenzhane Wallis the C-word (they later apologized); those who berate Rihanna for "exploring the intricacies of love and power on the world stage," or "shame" pop superstar Taylor Swift for the way she "navigates through the murky waters of love, heartbreak, and fame."

"Are we asking them to defy the laws of nature because of who they are? Why can't we congratulate them for the capacity to work through their challenges on a world stage and still deliver products that keep them on top...Imagine yourself, at their age, with the spotlight, challenges, and responsibilities," she wrote.

In essence, she wants the haters to back off, and we suggest they do, as you don't want Smith coming after you (or her action-star husband).

To read the entire post, click here.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.