Will Smith Reflects on Decades-Long Feud with Former Co-Star Janet Hubert

A New Episode of Vice’s “Black Comedy in America” Series Features Smith’s Thoughts on the Past Animosity

Will Smith, 56, has once again shared his thoughts about his past animosity with former “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” co-star Janet Hubert, 68. In a new episode of Vice’s “Black Comedy in America” series, Smith reflected on his decades-long feud with the original actress who played Vivian Banks on the 1990s-era sitcom.

“I made a horrible error and misjudged her value, power, and beauty in the show,” Smith said, per People. “I horribly underestimated what she was for me at that point in my life.”

A Rift Between Smith and Hubert

The unexpected replacement of Hubert by Daphne Maxwell Reid as Aunt Viv in season 4 of the show in 1993 shocked television viewers and blew wide open a rift between Smith and Hubert. Hubert launched an unsuccessful lawsuit against Smith and NBC in 1993.

Despite the blatant bitterness between the two entertainers, Smith and Hubert eventually managed to settle their differences after years of public hostility.

Reconciliation

The two longtime adversaries sat down together for the first time since Hubert’s departure from the show in 1993 while filming “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” reunion special on HBO Max in 2020. Hubert explained to People that the two have a good relationship and text each other frequently.

“I meant it with all my heart when I hugged him, because I saw that little boy, that little 21-year-old boy. Had we had an opportunity to talk back then, I think this would have never happened,” Hubert said.

Comments from Fans and Critics

Commenters on The Jasmine Brand’s Instagram page responded to Smith’s latest positive comments regarding his former nemesis. Some praised the reconciliation, while others criticized Smith for allegedly hurting Hubert’s career.

Conclusion

The feud between Will Smith and Janet Hubert is a reminder that even long-standing animosity can be overcome with time and effort. The two former co-stars have put their differences aside and are now on good terms.

FAQs

Q: Why did Will Smith and Janet Hubert have a feud?
A: The feud between Smith and Hubert started in the 1990s when Hubert left the show “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” after three seasons.

Q: What was the cause of the feud?
A: The feud was reportedly caused by a contract dispute and a replacement of Hubert by Daphne Maxwell Reid as Aunt Viv in season 4 of the show.

Q: When did Will Smith and Janet Hubert reconcile?
A: Smith and Hubert reconciled in 2020 while filming “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” reunion special on HBO Max.