News: Breaking News: James Avery, Uncle Phil from 'The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,' has died at age 65

James Avery, who played the father on "The French Prince of Bel-Air" has died at 65.

Avery's publicist, Cynthia Snyder, told The Associated Press that Avery died Tuesday. She did not immediately know the cause of death or where he died.
According to TMZ, Avery suffered complications from recent open heart surgery.
Avery played the bulky character actor who laid down the law as the Honorable Philip Banks in the show.
Avery played Will Smith's uncle on the popular TV series. His movie credits included "Fletch," "The Prince of Egypt" and "8 Million Ways to Die."
Alfonso Ribeiro, who played Avery's son on "Fresh Prince," posted a message on his Facebook page about the actor's death.
"The world has lost a truly special man," the post said. "I am very saddened to say that James Avery has passed. Even though he played my father on TV, he was a wonderful father figure to me in life. He will be deeply missed."
And poor Will Smith who is in Dubai at the moment with wife, Jada will be saddened by this, plus the T.V series producer Pollack who died a few days ago!!!

I'm deeply saddened to say that James Avery has passed away. He was a second father to me. I will miss him greatly. pic.twitter.com/UrW0EeBFbO
— Alfonso Ribeiro (@alfonso_ribeiro) January 1, 2014

R.I.P Mr Avery