Who Is James Avery? Age, Biography and Wiki
James Avery was born on November 27, 1945, and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry until his passing on December 31, 2013. In 2025, he would have celebrated his 80th birthday. Best known for his role as Uncle Phil on the iconic sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Avery's deep voice and commanding presence made him a beloved figure in households around the world. His talent spanned across television, film, and voice acting, captivating audiences with performances that highlighted his range and depth.
| Occupation | Screenwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 27, 1945 |
| Age | 68 Years |
| Birth Place | Suffolk, Virginia, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 31 December, 2013 |
| Died Place | Glendale, California, U.S. |
Popularity
James Avery's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
James Avery stood at approximately 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm) tall, contributing to his commanding presence on screen. His weight fluctuated throughout his career, often resting around 250 pounds (113 kg), which complemented his larger-than-life persona. Although exact measurements are not widely available, Avery's athletic build and stature were instrumental in his casting for numerous roles during his career.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
James Avery was married to the actress and producer Andrea Avery from 1988 until his death in 2013. The couple shared a strong bond and often supported each other in their respective careers. Prior to his marriage, Avery had various relationships, but his union with Andrea was the most significant in his life. They remained deeply committed to each other, showcasing a loving and supportive partnership.
Avery. His father denied paternity and was not listed on his birth certificate. Florence would later move a teenaged James to Atlantic City, New Jersey, where he attended Atlantic City High School. He served in the U.S.
Navy in the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969, and eventually moved to San Diego, California, where he began to write poetry and TV scripts for PBS.
He won an Emmy for production during his tenure there, and then received a scholarship to UC San Diego, where he attended Thurgood Marshall College (then Third College), earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama and literature in 1976.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, James Avery's net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. His earnings primarily came from his extensive career in television, film, and voice acting. Avery's role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air was a cornerstone of his success, earning him both critical acclaim and financial stability. In 2025, his estate continues to receive recognition, as his work remains influential and celebrated.
Career, Business and Investments
James Avery's career began in the late 1970s, and he quickly made a name for himself in the acting world with appearances in various television shows such as The Jeffersons and Airwolf. His breakthrough role came in 1990 when he was cast as Uncle Phil on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, where he showcased his ability to balance humor and drama.
Beyond acting, Avery was also a talented voice actor, lending his voice to characters in animated series such as The Lion Guard and Kung Fu Panda: The Paws of Destiny. In addition to his performance career, he explored various business ventures, including voice acting workshops, which inspired aspiring artists.
Avery began his career in the 1980s with appearances in television series such as NBC's Hill Street Blues, Showtime sitcom Brothers as Bubba Dean, Amen, FM and L.A. Law.
In the 1990s, he achieved prominence for his role as Philip Banks in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, a character that was ranked number 34 in TV Guide's "50 Greatest TV Dads of All Time". After The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air ended, he played the lead role of Alonzo Sparks in the UPN comedy series Sparks that lasted for two seasons.
Other notable roles in television included Dr. Crippen in The Closer, Charles Haysbert in The Division, and Michael Kelso's commanding officer at the police academy late in the series run of That '70s Show.
Social Network
While James Avery is not present on social media platforms due to his passing, his legacy continues through fan pages and tributes. Dedicated fans regularly share memories, quotes, and highlights from his career, ensuring that new generations are introduced to his impressive body of work. A few notable fan accounts celebrate his life on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, drawing communities together in admiration for the late actor.
Education
James Avery was an academically gifted individual who pursued education fervently. He attended the University of California, San Diego, earning a degree in theater. Avery also served in the U.S. Navy before fully committing to his acting career, which helped shape his discipline and work ethic. His educational background allowed him to hone his craft and became a foundation for his future accomplishments in the industry.
In conclusion, James Avery's legacy is marked by his powerful performances and enduring influence on the entertainment industry. As we look back on his life in 2025, we celebrate the man who brought Uncle Phil to life and continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
