'Bel-Air': 5 things you need to know about Peacock reboot of legendary sitcom
"Now, this is a story all about how my life got flipped-turned upside down. And I'd like to take a minute just sit right there. I'll tell you how I became the prince of a town called Bel-Air." The theme song to the NBC sitcom 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' was an instant hit when it came out in the early '90s. With Will Smith, credited as 'Fresh Prince,' spitting bars and DJ Jazzy Jeff on the beats, the 3-minute track describes how or rather why a boy from West Philadelphia ended up at the wealthy neighborhood of Bel-Air. The show was a massive hit and ran for six years on NBC.
Many years later, the show would inspire Morgan Cooper to make 'Bel-Air,' a mock trailer that was a reimagining of the legendary sitcom. Darker and dramatic in nature, the fan film caught the attention of Will Smith who showered it with praises. Smith also expressed interest in developing the concept into a full-fledged reboot. Titled 'Bel-Air,' the show was officially announced in August 2020 and was given a two-season order by Peacock. You could also watch 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' on Netflix or HBO Max if you're interested in taking a look at the original series that served as an inspiration.
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When and where can you watch 'Bel-Air'?
The first episode of the series is set to drop on Peacock on February 13, 2022. The makers are yet to reveal the release dates of the remaining episodes.
What is 'Bel-Air' all about?
The official synopsis reads, "Set in modern-day America, Bel-Air is a serialized one-hour dramatic analogue of the '90s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air that leans into the original premise: Will’s complicated journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to the gated mansions of Bel-Air. With a reimagined vision, Bel-Air will dive deeper into the inherent conflicts, emotions, and biases that were impossible to fully explore in a 30-minute sitcom format, while still delivering swagger and nods to the original show." The series is set in modern times and will revolve around the problems that Black youth face these days.
Who stars in 'Bel-Air'?
Jabari Banks will be seen as Will Smith in the Peacock reboot. Banks, 23, got the role after auditioning for it and it was Will Smith who broke the news to him. 'Bel-Air' is Banks' debut as an actor. Rumors have it that the 23-year-old graduate from the University of Arts, Philadelphia, used to dress up like the character from 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' when he was in high school. Banks is also a rapper and an avid basketball player.
Other actors who are a part of 'Bel-Air' are Adrian Holmes, April Parker Jones, Olly Sholotan, Cassandra Freeman, Scottie Thompson, Karrueche Tran, Duane Martin, and Charlie Hall.
Who are the showrunners?
The show is executive produced by Will Smith, James Lassiter, Malcolm Spellman, Quincy Jones, Benny Medina, Andy Borowitz, and Susan Borowitz. It was developed by Smith and Morgan Cooper. 'Bel-Air' is produced by Westbrook Studios and Universal Television.
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