For “Bel-Air” fans, the show’s nostalgic send-off was a farewell fit for a fresh prince.
The Peacock drama, a reimagining of the classic ’90s sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” dropped its series finale on Monday, Dec. 8, bringing the show’s four-season run to a bittersweet end.
Hardcore “Fresh Prince” fans were in for an emotional treat when the original Will Smith, played by the Oscar-winning actor of the same name, made a cameo in the final episode. Smith appeared as an older version of his younger self, portrayed by Jabari Banks, and the pair share a touching conversation about living life to the fullest.
“Just live and laugh and cry,” Smith tells Banks. “Life goes by fast, man. Try to enjoy the ride. I’ll let you in on a little secret. We’re gonna be alright.”
In true “Fresh Prince” fashion, Smith even threw in a playful reference to his character’s Philadelphia upbringing: “Eat a cheesesteak, just not every day, because cholesterol is real.”
“Bel-Air,” which Smith co-executive produced several episodes of, debuted in 2022 and offered a grittier, coming-of-age take on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” the hit NBC sitcom that ran from 1990-96 and often showcased Smith’s knack for physical comedy.
“Bel-Air” also earned its fair share of acclaim. In February, the show was nominated for outstanding drama series at the 56th NAACP Image Awards, while Banks received a nod for outstanding actor in a drama series.
‘Bel-Air’ finale earns rave reviews after Will Smith cameo
Smith’s cameo in the “Bel-Air” finale proved to be a satisfying conclusion for fans, who praised the show online for its thoughtful approach to the “Fresh Prince” remake.
“Bel-Air!!!! Beautifully done!!!!”, @MahoganyANT wrote on X. “The way I needed a tissue when Will said goodbye!!! Loved this show from the beginning!! THAT’S HOW YOU DO A DAMN REIMAGINING of a classic show!”
“DAMN! This scene right here is some quintessential ‘passing of the torch’ stuff right here!” @ManofTomorrow22 said of Smith’s cameo. “We’re going to miss you, Bel-Air, and thank you for everything! 😊🥲”
“Bel-Air was executed so well!” @TNT_Fairy wrote. “Touching classics is so risky and often aren’t done right but BEL-AIR did their big one!!”
“Watching Bel-Air is like watching a multi-verse version of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” @TravisHouze quipped. “Just gotta be ready for the references when they drop.”
“Bel-Air has been a masterclass on how remakes should be made,” another X user reflected. “From casting to storylines, I’ve been hooked since episode one.”
Contributing: Erin Jensen, USA TODAY
