Jabari Banks experienced overwhelming emotions when he relocated to Los Angeles years ago to take on the lead role in Peacock's dramatic reimagining of Bel-Air. The breakout series, which transforms the beloved 1990s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air into a serious drama, represented the newcomer's first significant step into Hollywood's competitive landscape.
From First-Time Actor to Leading Man
Before landing his career-defining role, Banks had auditioned for various projects but never secured a television role. The opportunity to lead a major series positioned above veteran actors initially felt nerve-wracking for the young performer. "I think they all wanted to see me win," Banks told HuffPost about his castmates. "When you have a community like that around you, it feels good. I don't want to disappoint them or disappoint myself."
The timeline from casting to filming proved incredibly accelerated. Banks discovered he'd been cast as Will Smith—the Philadelphia teen who transitions from West Philly streets to his wealthy family's gated Bel-Air mansion—and began filming the first season within the same month. This compressed schedule left minimal time for hesitation or second-guessing.
The Final Season and Lasting Legacy
Four seasons later, Bel-Air concludes its run with what Banks describes as a satisfying conclusion. The fourth and final season, which premiered November 24, brings bittersweet closure for the actor who has grown alongside his character throughout the series.
"They put a great bow on the show," Banks revealed. "People are going to be very, very pleased with how the show ends."
The final season introduces pivotal moments for each Banks family member as they navigate new life phases. High school seniors Will (Banks) and Carlton (Olly Sholotan) confront crucial decisions about their futures as college approaches. Meanwhile, freshman Ashley (Akira Akbar) seeks independence through rebellion, while her newly widowed sister Hilary (Coco Jones) embarks on soul-searching. Adult characters face their own transitions, with pregnant Vivian (Cassandra Freeman) adjusting to motherhood and an unexpected power shift testing Phil (Adrian Holmes) and Geoffrey's (Jimmy Akingbola) relationship.
Building Community and Career Foundations
For Banks, the series provided not just a career launchpad but genuine community. Being surrounded by Black cast members and crew created a supportive environment uncommon for many young Black actors in Hollywood.
"It felt like community, you know?" Banks reflected. "It felt like a big family in front of the camera, behind the camera. Everyone wanted us to look our best, act our best, and feel our best."
This support system proved essential for Banks, who arrived in Los Angeles without existing connections. The cast's bond extended beyond filming, with Banks noting they regularly spent weekends together. He particularly credits co-stars Olly Sholotan and Jordan L. Jones as his closest confidants, describing their ongoing daily communication.
Looking Beyond Bel-Air
As Bel-Air concludes, Banks eagerly anticipates future projects. Before the final season premiere, the actor-musician released his debut EP "Ultra," showcasing musical talents he cultivated before his acting career accelerated. With a voice role in the forthcoming Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw movie, he plans to pursue additional film opportunities.
"I want to get into movies," Banks shared. "Playing a role for four years was fun, but I'm excited to play different types of characters. I know I have so much to give to the world, to this industry."
Banks acknowledges Will Smith's ongoing mentorship, recalling advice the superstar offered during a set visit: "Anything that you guys want to do outside of [the show], I think you should probably do it now, because strike while the iron is hot." Banks has embraced this guidance through his music releases and career planning.
Despite concerns about being typecast after such an iconic role, Banks remains optimistic. "I'm not worried about that," he stated. "Because people saw Will [Smith] do it first, they won't be surprised when they see me do it."
The actor expressed particular interest in biopics, citing Ray as inspiration. He believes his experience capturing Will Smith's essence prepared him for such challenging roles.
Reflecting on his journey, Banks recognizes how leading a television series transformed his understanding of professional responsibility. "When you're number one on the call sheet, the energy on set flows from you," he explained. "It's a big responsibility, but I'm hoping to take that on over and over again."
As Bel-Air concludes its successful four-season run, Banks carries forward lessons about discipline, consistency, and maintaining creative hunger—valuable tools for the next chapter of his evolving career.
