Jada Pinkett-Smith, Will Smith’s wife, took to her Facebook account on Wednesday night to express grief over the death of James Avery, who played Will’s uncle in ‘90s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
James Avery and Will Smith on the set of Fresh Prince of Bel Air
Avery, 68, died Tuesday on New Year’s Eve after complications that arose from open heart surgery.
“Happy New Year everyone! I was hoping to start the new year differently but we have lost yet another friend. James Avery who we all lovingly know as Uncle Phil from The Fresh Prince has passed. Our condolences to aunt Florence (his mother), Miss Barbara (his wife) and all those who loved him. Rest in peace James,” Jada posted.
Will, who celebrated New Year’s Eve in Dubai at Barasti club with a surprise performance of Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It alongside his friend and Fresh Prince co-star DJ Jazzy Jeff, had yet to comment.
DJ Jazzy Jeff tweeted, “RIP James Avery…Thank U for the talks,travel tips and the jazz cd’s. A great Friend and Even Better Person…You will be Missed!!”
RIP James Avery…Thank U for the talks,travel tips and the jazz cd's. A great Friend and Even Better Person…You will be Missed!! #FPOB
— DJ Jazzy Jeff (@djjazzyjeff215) January 1, 2014
Alfonso Ribeiro, who played Avery’s TV son Carlton on the show, said he was “deeply saddened” in a Facebook post. “He was a second father to me. I will miss him greatly.”
James Avery with the cast of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air
