Briefly: Actor James Avery, best known for his roles as the original voice of Shredder on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Phillip Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, has passed away at 68 due to complications from open heart surgery.
His most prominent role, Phillip Banks, was ranked number 34 on TV Guides list of ‘The 50 Greatest TV Dads of All Time”. Jada Pinkett-Smith (who is married to the Fresh Prince himself), offered the following statement on her official Facebook page:
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
Our thoughts go out to James’ family and friends. Were you a Fresh Prince of Bel-Air fan back in the day? Let us know your favourite episode (and your favourite Avery role) below.
