If you can ignore Will Smith’s “slap controversy” at the 94th Oscars, then you will be alright while watching this amazing and hilarious show. Yes, we are talking about The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. This is the show that gave wings to Smith’s acting career. The show is considered one of the greatest sitcoms ever. And it is available on Netflix.
‘Fresh Prince’ became a sensation in the 1990s. It was praised for its belly-aching humour, acting performances (particularly from Smith, Alfonso Ribeiro, and late James Avery), memorable supporting characters, and masterful blend of comedy and drama. The sitcom had tons of hilarious moments, but it also tackled key social issues, such as classism, racism, personal growth, and family dynamics.
The show revolves around a young man, Will (played by Smith), whose life flips upside down after he is sent by his mother to live with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air. His relatives are the Banks family, consisting of his uncle Phil, aunt Vivian, and his cousins: Hillary, Carlton, Ashley, and baby Nicky (who gets introduced in Season 3). Along with them, we see their sarcastic butler, Geoffrey.
Apart from Will Smith, the show has splendid performers like Janet Hubert-Whitten, Alfonso Ribeiro, Karyn Parsons, Tatyana Ali, Joseph Marcell, Ross Bagley, and more. Additionally, the series has featured many celebrity guests, including Don Cheadle (Iron Man 2), William Shatner (Star Trek franchise), Jay Leno, Donald Trump, Queen Latifah, and even Chris Rock (yes folks, he appears in Season 6).
The iconic sitcom has six seasons and 148 episodes to offer. It has an average audience score of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Starring Will Smith, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is streaming on Netflix. Enjoy!