The late 90s television hit, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is arguably one of the best sitcoms introduced in American entertainment (complex.com). Staring Will (portrayed by Will Smith) as a fictional version of himself, the show tells the interesting story of the West Philadelphia teenager who moves in with his wealthy family in Bel-Air. Over the course of episodes, viewers watch Will interact in his new lifestyle, often running into oppositions with his relatives. The popularity of the show, or maybe just the theme song, accompanied by the unique “new age” plots allowed the show to become a success in a variety of communities, primarily among African-Americans.
From the very first episode to the final episode airing six years later, the sitcom proved to be beneficial to the black community. The primary cast, comprised of a majority of African-Americans and people of color introduced controversial topics, equality affairs, and the most importantly, the issues of race. Along with discussing controversial topics, the Banks family (Will’s family in Bel-Air) actually broke many black stereotypes compared to other “black” shows at the time. Philip Banks (portrayed by James Avery), the father of the family was a hard working, children loving, no-nonsense judge married to Vivian Banks (portrayed by Janet Reid & Janet Hubert), and proceeded to raise several children. Philip displayed an example of African-American men who actually lived the American Dream. The family as a whole, comprised of a happily married mother and father, as well as three well-educated children is just another example of the positivity displayed in the sitcom.
There are many possibilities that contribute to the fact that many people of color identify so greatly with the fictional show. Yes, the show had a few black stereotypes such as Carlton (Will’s cousin, portrayed by Alfonso Robiero) doing his signature dance in which Will accused him of dancing like a “white boy” based on his music and apparel of choice. Aside from humor, Fresh Prince also addressed real-life situations and serious problems. One of the most memorable episodes revolving around race and ethnicity was the 1991 episode, “Mistaken Identity.” During the episode, Will was pulled over on his way home strictly because he appeared to be “suspicious.” Carlton couldn’t understand the possibility of being stopped by the police solely based on skin color, especially since he grew up in a neighborhood that lacked discrimination. The episode helped prove that racism is still very much alive and allowed viewers of all ethnic backgrounds to become more aware of the minor discrimination people of color face in their day to day lives.
When putting everything into context, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air was the perfect accompaniment and successor to previous famous sitcoms like The Cosby Show (IntroToMassComm). Fresh Prince provided and continues to provide a positive example of Black families in America. The love within the family and success of both the male and female characters provided a positive light for the portrayal of African-Americans in media. The show was realistic, often dealing with real life situations that many faced and discussing various family issues. Most importantly, the show provided/provides the opportunity for people of color to view characters in the media who look just like them.
Veena says
I wonder what you think of the characters in Blackish and How to get away with Murder, the new TV shows.
Pedro Luis Garmendia Gil says
This is one of my all time favorite shows, although I started watching it a couple of years ago. As a foreigner I can relate in some part to the discrimination he suffers because I have felt it first hand. Definitely more than jus a sitcom
Nicole Dugan says
The Fresh Prince was honestly one of my favorite shows as a child and I can still sing the whole theme song to this day. I’m proud of it too! I agree with you that this show taught a lot of lessons. I remember the episode you’re talking about and, as a kid, I couldn’t understand why he was considered different. I didn’t know what racism was. Personally, the episode that made the biggest impact on me was the one when will cried about his dad not wanting him. It just taught me that your family is made up of the people that love you.