Willow Smith, the multi-talented artist and daughter of Hollywood icons Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, has navigated her romantic life with a remarkable degree of openness and self-discovery. Her journey through relationships has often mirrored her artistic evolution, marked by deep connections, collaborative spirits, and a candid embrace of her polyamorous identity. Unlike many public figures who guard their private lives, Willow has shared insights into her romantic philosophy, offering a unique perspective on love in the modern age.
Willow's romantic history first gained public attention with her relationship with fellow musician Tyler Cole. The pair were first linked around 2018, and their connection was notable for its strong artistic and intellectual synergy. They frequently collaborated on music, with Cole co-producing Willow's 2019 self-titled album and later releasing a joint album, The Anxiety, in March 2020. This collaborative spirit extended beyond music, as they also engaged in a 24-hour performance art piece inside a glass box at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, further showcasing their intertwined creative and personal lives.
Their relationship was often described as low-key, though they made several public appearances together, including a notable one on Red Table Talk in October 2020. During this appearance, Tyler Cole joined Willow, her mother Jada Pinkett Smith, and grandmother Adrienne Banfield-Norris to discuss voting and racial injustice, highlighting the intellectual depth of their bond. Jada Pinkett Smith referred to Cole as a "close family friend," indicating his integration into the Smith family circle. Public displays of affection, such as passionate kisses caught by paparazzi in October 2019, confirmed the romantic nature of their connection.
A significant aspect of Willow's approach to relationships, which she openly discussed during her time with Tyler Cole, is her embrace of polyamory. In a June 2019 episode of Red Table Talk, Willow candidly stated her attraction to both men and women and expressed that a monogamous relationship might not be the best fit for her. She further elaborated on this in 2021, explaining that polyamory, for her, involves being in agreement with partners about having more than one romantic connection. She clarified that she would likely draw the line at having more than two partners, emphasizing mutual consent and understanding within her relationships. This revelation provided context for her evolving romantic life and her desire for freedom and authenticity in her connections.
While the exact timeline of their separation is not publicly confirmed, Willow and Tyler Cole's romantic relationship appeared to conclude sometime after 2020. Reports and social media activity suggested a shift, with Willow unfollowing Cole on Instagram, often a sign of a relationship ending in the public eye. Despite the romantic chapter closing, their artistic collaborations remain a testament to the deep bond they shared.
More recently, Willow Smith has been linked to Australian singer Eddie Benjamin. Their romance began to gain public traction in late 2021 and 2022, though they had been seen together earlier. In December 2021, Willow was spotted in Miami with musician De'Wayne, leading to initial speculation, but it was Eddie Benjamin who emerged as her confirmed partner. The couple made headlines in December 2023 when they were seen packing on the PDA at Bronte Beach in Sydney, all but confirming their romance.
Willow and Eddie Benjamin have been observed together on multiple occasions, including date nights in Malibu and public appearances that suggest a comfortable and affectionate relationship. Their connection seems to be built on shared interests and a mutual understanding, with Benjamin often seen supporting Willow at various events. Their public displays of affection and frequent sightings indicate a strong and ongoing bond.
Willow's current relationship with Eddie Benjamin appears to align with her previously stated views on open relationships, though specific details of their arrangement are kept private. Her journey reflects a modern approach to love, prioritizing honesty, self-expression, and connections that honor her personal philosophy. She continues to evolve both personally and professionally, with her romantic life being a public, yet respectfully handled, aspect of her multifaceted identity. Her relationships, from her artistic partnership with Tyler Cole to her current romance with Eddie Benjamin, underscore her commitment to living authentically and exploring love on her own terms.