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Actor James Avery passed away Tuesday night due to complications from open-heart surgery that took place in November. He was 68 and most remembered for playing Uncle Phil on the 1990s sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”. Let’s take a look at some of Avery’s most memorable performances on the “Fresh Prince”.
#5 First Time tossing Jazz out the front door
Throwing Will’s friend, Jazz, out of the house became a staple of the show. Uncle Phil showed very little tolerance or patience when it came to Jazz. In this clip from Season 1 Episode 2, “Bang the Drum, Ashley”, while is enjoying some tea and classical music, Jazz decides to mix things up a bit.
#4 Uncle Phil Schools the Pool Sharks
After Will gets hustled by some Pool Sharks, Uncle Phil goes down to bring back his nephew, his money, and then some. “Geoffrey, break out Lucille”.
#3 Mistaken Identity
In Season 1 Episode 6, Will and Carlton end up getting thrown in jail for “stealing” Mr. Firth’s car and Uncle Phil comes to the police station and drops some knowledge.
#2 Pilot
This scene from the first episode has Uncle Phil and Will going head to head. Uncle Phil sets Will straight after he arrives in Bel-Air. You could tell Uncle Phil was going to be a tough guy but still lovable and a great example of a family leader.
#1 Will’s Father comes to Bel-Air
In one of the most emotional moments from the show as whole, Will Smith and James Avery give some of their best performances when Will’s father comes to visit. After suffering another disappointment again, Uncle Phil is there.
Avery will definitely be missed and remembered for his long acting career and specifically his role as Uncle Phil.
A Geek's Take 