James Avery Net Worth

James Avery: From ‘Fresh Prince’ to a Lasting Legacy – His Net Worth and Life Story

James Avery’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death

James Avery, a beloved American actor, left behind a legacy of memorable performances and a substantial net worth. At the time of his passing on December 31, 2013, Avery’s net worth was estimated at $3 million. This figure reflects his successful career spanning over three decades, encompassing roles in television, film, and voice acting. Avery’s most iconic role, as Judge Philip Banks on the NBC sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” undoubtedly contributed significantly to his financial success and widespread recognition.

Early Life and Education

James Avery’s journey began on November 27, 1945, in Pughsville, Virginia. Born to Florence J. Avery, he spent his childhood in Atlantic City, New Jersey. After completing his high school education, Avery served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969. Following his military service, he embarked on a new chapter, moving to San Diego, California, where he worked as a writer for PBS. His writing skills led him to create television scripts and even earned him an Emmy Award for one of his productions. Avery’s commitment to education continued as he attended Thurgood Marshall College at UC San Diego, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama and literature in 1976. This educational background laid the foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry.

Career Beginnings: From Writer to Actor

James Avery’s career path took a fascinating turn as he transitioned from writing to acting. Having honed his skills behind the scenes, Avery began taking on minor roles in films such as “The Stunt Man” and “The Blues Brothers” in 1980. His versatility and talent quickly became apparent, leading to a series of diverse roles in television series and films throughout the 1980s. This period marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him grace both the big and small screens, captivating audiences with his presence.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air: The Role That Defined a Generation

In 1990, James Avery landed the role that would catapult him to international fame and become a cultural touchstone: Judge Philip Banks in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” This role was a pivotal point in his career. Starring alongside a young Will Smith, Avery’s portrayal of the stern but loving Uncle Phil earned him critical acclaim and endeared him to millions of viewers. The show ran for six seasons, airing 148 episodes from September 1990 to May 1996, and remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its humor, heart, and exploration of social issues. Avery’s character was so impactful that “TV Guide” included him in their “50 Greatest TV Dads of All Time” list.

(Photo by Mark Mainz/Getty Images)

Post-‘Fresh Prince’ Career and Other Notable Roles

Even after the immense success of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” James Avery continued to build an impressive body of work. He booked the lead role of Alonzo Sparks in the UPN comedy series “Sparks,” which ran for two seasons. His voice acting credits are equally notable, with his role as Shredder in the original “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” cartoon series (1987-1993) becoming a fan favorite. He also appeared in numerous other television shows including “L.A. Law,” “Amen,” “The Closer”, and films, showcasing his range and ability to captivate audiences across different genres. His consistent work in the industry proved his lasting appeal and talent.

Some of his notable film credits include “Fletch,” “8 Million Ways to Die,” “License to Drive,” and “Nightflyers.” In addition to his live-action work, Avery’s voice was also recognizable. He voiced the iconic villain Shredder in the original “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” cartoon series from 1987 to 1993. Avery’s extensive work in television and film solidified his place as a respected actor, and his contributions to popular culture are still celebrated today.

Personal Life, Marriage, and Legacy

Beyond his professional achievements, James Avery’s personal life was marked by a loving marriage and a commitment to his community. In 1988, he married Barbara, who worked as the dean of student life at Loyola Marymount University. The couple did not have any children together, but Avery embraced his role as stepfather to Barbara’s son, Kevin Waters. Avery maintained strong ties with his alma mater, UC San Diego, returning to deliver the commencement speech in 2007 and again in 2012. Following his death, he received numerous tributes from fellow actors, including Janet Hubert, Will Smith, Joseph Marcell, and Alfonso Ribeiro. Avery’s memory is still cherished. His remains were cremated and scattered near the Pacific Ocean, a testament to his love for the California coast. In April 2020, the cast of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” reunited via video conference to celebrate his memory.

Real Estate Ventures

James Avery also had a presence in the real estate market. In November 1992, he purchased a home in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles for $565,000. His estate later sold the property in February 2019 for $1.81 million. This reflects his financial acumen and the success he achieved throughout his career.

/**/