West Philadelphian To Play Will In 'Fresh Prince' Dramatic Reboot

Philadelphia PA

01 September, 2021

2:56 PM

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PHILADELPHIA — Will Smith knew just where to look when casting a dramatic version of his iconic TV character on the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" for a new reboot of 90s sitcom: West Philadelphia. In a video posted by Peacock, NBC's streaming platform, West Philadelphia native Smith tells up-and-coming West Philly actor Jabari Banks that he landed the role. According to Peacock, the new show, simply titled "Bel-Air," is set in modern-day America and is "serialized dramatic analogue of the 90's sitcom 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' that leans into the original premise: Will's complicated journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to the gated mansions of Bel-Air." "This is a dream come true," Banks tells Smith in the video. Banks even showed Smith a photo of he and his high school friends dressed up as "Fresh Prince" characters. Smith was thrilled at the photo "That's hilarious! I love that," he told Banks. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Banks was not born and raised in West Philadelphia like his character, but he has family in the city and graduated from the University of the Arts with a bachelor's degree in musical theater last year. "Bel-Air" is the only credit listed on Banks's IMDB page, and he is the only cast member listed on the show's IMDB page. Smith, who is also a producer on the show along with Quincy Jones and other, told Banks he will be an "asset" for him during the show's run. "I'm so grateful," Banks said. "This is incredible." It's unclear when Bel-Air will hit Peacock, but for now fans can check out the trailer for a 2019 fan-made dramatic take on the "Fresh Prince" that inspired "Bel-Air:"