James Avery: Embraces Truth, Expresses Love Fearlessly
James LaRue Avery, born on November 27, 1945, in Suffolk, Virginia, was a distinguished American actor and poet, best known for his iconic role as Philip “Uncle Phil” Banks on the television sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” His commanding presence and versatile talent left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Quick Bio Table: James Avery
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James LaRue Avery |
| Date of Birth | November 27, 1945 |
| Place of Birth | Suffolk, Virginia, USA |
| Date of Death | December 31, 2013 |
| Age at Death | 68 years |
| Height | 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters) |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Literature, University of California, San Diego |
| Occupation | Actor, Poet |
| Net Worth | Approximately $3 million at the time of his death |
| Spouse | Barbara Avery (m. 1988) |
Early Life and Background
James Avery was raised in Atlantic City, New Jersey, by his mother, Florence J. Avery. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving in the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969. Following his military service, Avery moved to San Diego, California, where he began writing poetry and television scripts, eventually earning an Emmy Award for his production of “Ameda Speaks: Poet James Avery,
Age and Physical Appearance
Standing at an imposing 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters), Avery had a commanding presence that complemented his deep, resonant voice. His stature and demeanor made him a natural fit for authoritative roles throughout his acting career.
Education
Avery pursued higher education at the University of California, San Diego, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama and Literature in 1978. His academic background laid a solid foundation for his subsequent endeavors in acting and writing.
His Father
Details about James Avery’s father are scarce, as he was primarily raised by his mother, Florence J. Avery. There is limited public information regarding his paternal lineage.
His Mother
Florence J. Avery was James’s primary caregiver. She played a significant role in his upbringing, supporting his early interests and endeavors.
Children
James Avery did not have any biological children. However, through his marriage to Barbara Avery, he became a stepfather to her son, Kevin Waters.
Who Is James Avery?
James Avery was a classically trained actor and poet whose career spanned over three decades. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Uncle Phil on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” a role that showcased his ability to blend authority with warmth and humor. Beyond this iconic character, Avery’s extensive body of work included voice acting in animated series and appearances in various films and television shows.
Career Highlights
Avery’s acting career was marked by a diverse range of roles across television, film, and voice acting. Some of his most notable contributions include:
- Television: Apart from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” Avery appeared in shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Closer,” and “L.A. Law.”
- Voice Acting: He lent his distinctive voice to characters such as Shredder in the original “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” animated series and James Rhodes/War Machine in the animated series “Iron Man.”
- Film: Avery’s filmography includes roles in movies like “Fletch,” “The Brady Bunch Movie,” and “Dr. Dolittle 2.”
Net Worth
At the time of his passing in 2013, James Avery’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. This wealth was primarily accumulated through his extensive work in television and film.
Current Life
James Avery passed away on December 31, 2013, due to complications following open-heart surgery. His legacy continues to influence actors and entertainers, and his performances remain cherished by audiences worldwide.
Conclusion
James Avery’s life was a testament to his dedication to the arts and his commitment to portraying characters with depth and authenticity. His portrayal of Uncle Phil remains a cultural touchstone, reflecting his ability to embrace truth and express love fearlessly. Avery’s contributions to entertainment have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.
FAQs: James Avery
1. What was James Avery’s most famous role?
James Avery is best known for his role as Philip “Uncle Phil” Banks on the television sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”
2. Did James Avery have any children?
James Avery did not have biological children but was a stepfather to Kevin Waters, his wife Barbara’s son.
3. What was James Avery’s educational background?
He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama and Literature from the University of California, San Diego, in 1978.
4. How tall was James Avery?
James Avery stood at 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters) tall.
5. What was James Avery’s net worth at the time of his death?
His net worth was estimated to be around $3 million.
