Former “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” actor Will Smith has opened up about the death of his TV uncle, James Avery, who recently passed away on Dec. 31 at aged 68 from complications following open heart surgery.
Smith posted a tribute to his co-star on Facebook writing, “Some of my greatest lessons in Acting, Living and being a respectable human being came through James Avery” “Every young man needs an Uncle Phil. Rest in Peace.” Smith also included a photo with Avery and other “Prince” cast members taken the last time they all got together.
Alfonso Ribeiro, who played Avery’s TV son, Carlton Banks, announced the news on New Year’s Day on social media.
Ribeiro tweeted: ‘I’m deeply saddened to say that James Avery has passed away. He was a second father to me. I will miss him greatly.’
He also published a status on his Facebook, stating: ‘The world has lost a truly special man.’
