We learned yesterday (January 1, 2014) about the death of James Avery, “Uncle Phil”, the patriarch of the 90’s television show: The Fresh Prince of Bel Air however, we didn’t know how he died.
According to Associated Press, his publicist informed them that he died of complications from open heart surgery. It was also reported that his wife, Barbara Avery, was at the hospital with the actor at the time of his death.
Jada Pinkett Smith, actress and wife of Will Smith who played “Will”-the nephew and a main character on the show, took to social media and posted: “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.
J “
No word (publicly) yet, from Karyn Parsons: “Hilary” –Uncle Phil’s eldest daughter, or neither of the two women who played his wives (different seasons/episodes): Janet Hubert and Daphne Maxwell-Reid.
Alphonso Ribeiro (who played “Carlton”-“Uncle Phil”’s son), had this to say:
https://twitter.com/alfonso_ribeiro/status/418440286583259136
As well, Tatyana Ali (who played “Ashley”-“Uncle Phil”’s youngest daughter) spoke publicly:
James was my teacher my protector & the most magnificent actor. We're feeling his loss very deeply. He'll always be apart of me #JamesAvery
— Tatyana Ali (@TatyanaAli) January 1, 2014
May James Avery “Uncle Phil” he rest in peace.
His presence and passing was felt my many.
Eye Spied at USWeekly via Esther Lee
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