As we previously reported, actor James Avery, lovingly known by many TV fans as “Uncle Phil” on the sitcom “The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air” passed away on New Year’s Eve at the age of 65.
It did not take long for those who knew and worked with Avery to express their condolences on Twitter. Actor Alfonso Robeiro, who played his son Carlton on the program, was one of the first to confirm his death.
“I’m deeply saddened to say that James Avery has passed away,” he wrote on Twitter. “He was a second father to me. I will miss him greatly.” While he has not yet made a public statement, reports are saying that Will Smith was “devastated” by the news. Tatyana Ali, who played his youngest daughter Ashley, added, “James was my teacher my protector & the most magnificent actor. We’re feeling his loss very deeply. He’ll always be apart of me.”
Other “Fresh Prince” cast members and peers of Avery have been sending their thoughts and memories of Avery. Read them below.
DJ Jazzy Jeff
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—
Mr Vinyl Destination (@djjazzyjeff215) January 01, 2014
Alfonso Robeiro
I'm deeply saddened to say that James Avery has passed away. He was a second father to me. I will miss him greatly. http://t.co/UrW0EeBFbO—
Alfonso Ribeiro (@alfonso_ribeiro) January 01, 2014
Tatiana Ali
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 01, 2014
Cedric The Entertainer
Just saw the news James Avery passed. He was a talented and kind gentleman. Rest in peace. #UnclePhil—
(@CedEntertainer) January 01, 2014
Sinbad
My condolences goes out to the family of actor James Avery from fresh prince who passed away last night. Will miss you big guy—
sinbad (@sinbadbad) January 01, 2014
Niecey Nash
Rest in Peace. Actor James Avery. A true gift to the entertainment industry. Loved as Uncle Phil from… instagram.com/p/ioysjyDy-7/—
Niecy Nash (@NiecyNash) January 01, 2014
Jada Pinkett-Smith
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DJ Jazzy Jeff, Alfonso Robeiro, Tatyana Ali & More Remember James Avery was originally published on theurbandaily.com