Will Smith Honors Late Costar James Avery in Tearful Las Vegas Show Moment
Will Smith turned his recent Las Vegas concert into a heartfelt trip down memory lane.
Ahead of the weekend, the actor and musician hit the stage at the House of Blues for a set packed with nostalgic hits like “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It,” “Miami,” and an emotional tribute to his “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” costar the late James Avery.
According to TMZ, who captured the moment, the Academy Award winner appeared to get choked up while performing a cover of “Apache” as a montage of Avery—who famously portrayed the stern but loving Uncle Phil—played behind him. At one point, Will dabbed his face with a towel, seemingly holding back tears in front of the crowd.
Avery, who passed away in 2014, played a pivotal role in the classic 90s sitcom and in Will’s real-life growth. The actor has spoken openly in the past about the deep respect he had for his on-screen uncle, making this tribute especially poignant.
A week after Avery’s death, Smith took to his Instagram account, paying a brief yet powerful tribute to his former mentor, writing, “Some of my greatest lessons in Acting, Living and being a respectable human being came through James Avery.” Smith ended his post, noting that, “Every young man needs an Uncle Phil. Rest in Peace.”
Also included in Smith’s setlist was a cover of Tom Jones “It’s Not Unusual”—a cheeky nod to “Fresh Prince,” where the track was often used in scenes featuring Carlton, portrayed by Alfonso Ribeiro, doing his legendary dance.
The show comes just days ahead of the release of Will’s upcoming album, “Based on a True Story,” which drops March 28—his first full-length project in nearly two decades.
“It’s OFFICIAL!! My new album Based on a True Story drops March 28. TWO WEEKS!! Hit that presave. Been working on this project for a minute and I’m itchin’ to get it out to y’all,” he shared on Instagram.
The 14-track album features collaborations with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jaden Smith, and more.
