Will Smith Reveals How His Bond with ‘Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ Co-Star James Avery Transformed His Life

Will Smith: December 4, 2024 – In a recent interview, Will Smith opened up about the life-changing bond he shared with a co-star from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, revealing how their relationship “transformed” his life both on and off the screen. Fans of the iconic 90s sitcom will be intrigued by the details, as it highlights the strong connections that were formed behind the scenes, which often went unnoticed by viewers.

Will Smith, the beloved actor known for his roles in films like Men in Black and Bad Boys, spent six seasons portraying the street-smart, yet charming, Will on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which aired from 1990 to 1996. The show became a cultural phenomenon, loved by audiences across the world. But beyond the laughter and iconic catchphrases, Will Smith has always emphasized the deep personal impact his co-stars had on him. Among them, one particular friendship stands out as a turning point in his life.

In his latest interview, Will Smith revealed that his relationship with the late James Avery, who played Uncle Phil on the show, had a profound impact on him. According to Will, James was not only a father figure on-screen but also played a pivotal role in guiding him off-screen. This relationship, which began when Smith was just starting out in Hollywood, has remained a powerful influence on Will’s personal and professional life.

A Father Figure in Hollywood

James Avery, who passed away in 2013, portrayed the loving but stern Uncle Phil, who took Will in after he was sent to live with his rich relatives in Bel-Air. On-screen, Uncle Phil provided wisdom and discipline, often clashing with Will’s more carefree attitude. But behind the scenes, Avery became a mentor to Will Smith, offering advice and support throughout their time working together.

Will Smith shared that when he first started the show, he was just a young rapper trying to break into acting. He was unsure of himself and his abilities, but Avery’s presence helped him build confidence. Smith fondly remembers the moments when Avery would offer guidance on everything from acting techniques to navigating the pressures of fame. This mentorship, Will said, was instrumental in shaping his career and helping him deal with the complexities of Hollywood life.

“James taught me how to be a man,” Will Smith said during the interview. “He taught me how to be comfortable in my own skin, to stand strong in my beliefs, and to never let anyone change who I was. He was like a real-life father figure.”

The Transformational Impact on Will’s Life

Over the years, Will Smith has spoken about how his relationship with James Avery was one of the most meaningful of his career. It wasn’t just about learning acting skills or advice on his career; it was about life lessons that stayed with him long after the show ended. Smith credits Avery with teaching him the importance of authenticity and being true to himself, which he believes is key to his success today.

One particular moment Smith remembers fondly is when Avery took him aside during a difficult time in his personal life. Will had just gone through a tough breakup and was struggling with the challenges of being in the public eye. According to Smith, it was Avery’s words that gave him the strength to move forward. Avery told him, “The key to success is keeping your heart open to love and kindness, no matter how tough things get.”

For Will, these words stayed with him and helped shape his own approach to life and relationships. He’s often spoken about how important it is to keep a positive outlook and to continue pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. Smith has used the lessons he learned from Avery to build a successful career, raise a family, and maintain a strong relationship with his fans.

How James Avery Changed Will Smith’s Career

The bond between Will Smith and James Avery went beyond personal advice; it directly influenced Smith’s professional growth. Avery’s wisdom helped Smith navigate the complexities of fame, ensuring that he never lost sight of who he was. “James would remind me to stay grounded and not get lost in the glitz and glamour of the industry,” Smith explained.

This relationship also helped Will Smith focus on his long-term goals. Instead of being distracted by short-term success, Avery encouraged him to always think about the bigger picture. Will Smith later went on to build a career that spanned movies, music, and producing, and he often credits Avery with teaching him how to balance different aspects of his life.

Even after The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air ended, Will continued to carry James Avery’s influence with him. He’s spoken about how important it is to continue learning, growing, and giving back, just as Avery had done for him. Smith’s commitment to mentorship, both in his career and personal life, reflects the lessons he learned from his late co-star.

A Lasting Legacy

James Avery’s influence on Will Smith didn’t end with his passing in 2013. Smith often honors Avery’s memory, including posting heartfelt tributes on social media. In 2021, on what would have been Avery’s 72nd birthday, Smith shared an emotional post remembering their time together on set.

“James Avery was the true patriarch of our Fresh Prince family,” Smith wrote. “He taught me so much about acting, life, and how to be a better person. I miss him every day, but I carry his lessons with me every step of the way.”

The lasting impact of their friendship shows how the relationships we form in our professional lives can shape who we are as people. Will Smith’s success as an actor, producer, and entrepreneur can be traced back to the valuable advice and guidance he received from his mentor, James Avery.