Peak nepotism? Jaden Smith appointed Christian Louboutin's creative director

Jaden Smith, son of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, has been hired as men's creative director by Christian Louboutin and is reportedly moving to Paris for his new job. 

The 27-year-old will be responsible for developing campaigns, experiences and events. He will also take charge of the creative side of shoes, leather goods and accessories. 

Louboutin said Smith was the only candidate for the job, addding: “He has a way of seeing things, of digesting things, of transforming that really connects with my way of functioning.” 

“This is the one of the biggest honours of my life, and I feel a lot of pressure to be able to live up to everything that Christian has done for the house, and also stepping into such a serious role,” said Smith.  

On the one side, this is clearly Louboutin hoping to leverage Smith's star power and nearly 20 million Instagram followers, in order to perk up the men's category. 

On the other side, considering Smith’s total lack of professional experience an industry that is one of the toughest to break into, many are calling foul and reigniting the ‘nepo-baby’ debate.  

Here are some of the reactions to Smith’s latest career move: 

Granted, the 27-year-old has been a regular at fashion shows for years and is a long-time collaborator with New Balance. Still, it’s quite the leap... 

Jaden Smith will present his first designs in Paris in January 2026. He'll oversee four collections a year.