Will Smith Describes Life-Changing Partnership with Alfonso Ribeiro: "Nobody Commits as Hard"

7 months ago

Will Smith Describes Life-Changing Partnership with Alfonso Ribeiro: “Nobody Commits as Hard”

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Will Smith is reminiscing about his time on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

The Oscar-winning actor discussed the creative influences that shaped his life and career during an appearance on the Tuesday episode of VICE TV’s Black Comedy in America series. He identified Jazzy Jeff, his collaborator in the hip-hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, and co-star Alfonso Ribeiro as significant contributors to his rise to fame.

“There have been a few creative partnerships in my life that have completely transformed me,” Smith revealed. “The first was Jazzy Jeff, who understands me in a way that most people don’t, allowing us to create and thrive together. Alfonso [Ribeiro] was definitely that person as well.”

“When he auditioned, it was clear he was the one,” the King Richard star continued. “No one commits as intensely as Alf. We refer to it as the ‘comedic limb,’ where you take a chance on a joke and put everything on the line. One of his main principles is that you fully commit so that the writers can see what works and what doesn’t.”

Smith went on to praise Ribeiro, noting that he would often be “redlining” and “giving everything” during rehearsals, even though the NBC show filmed on Fridays.

“The ability to risk failure is essential for comedy,” Smith explained to host Chris Spencer.

Later in the episode, the I Am Legend actor reflected on his relationships with other Fresh Prince cast members, including Janet Hubert, who portrayed Aunt Viv from 1990 to 1993. Hubert had previously suggested that Smith may have contributed to her departure, according to Jet magazine.

“I made a terrible mistake and misjudged her value, power, and beauty on the show,” Smith admitted regarding his past behavior. “I seriously underestimated her significance in my life at that time.”

Smith and Hubert reconciled in 2020 when they both participated in a Max reunion special celebrating 30 years of the sitcom.

“I have to say, after 27 years, being here today and having the conversation that Will and I shared has been healing,” Hubert expressed during the special. “I didn’t come here with animosity; I came to resolve things because it’s time.”

New episodes of Black Comedy in America air every Tuesday at 10 p.m. on Vice TV.

Person

Will Smith, Jazzy Jeff, Alfonso Ribeiro, Chris Spencer, Janet Hubert

Company Names

VICE TV, NBC, Max

Titles

Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, King Richard, I Am Legend, Black Comedy in America

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