Will Smith and Janet Hubert’s Bitter Feud: A 30-Year Saga of Hurt, Anger, and Redemption

As a wordsmith weaving tales of intrigue and drama, I, Maya Rivers, find myself enthralled by the complex narrative of Will Smith and Janet Hubert’s tumultuous relationship. In a recent revelation on “The Big Tigger Show,” Hubert, the 69-year-old actress who played Vivian Banks, also known as Aunt Viv, on the hit sitcom “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” shared an update on her rapport with her former co-star, Will Smith, 56.

The saga of their feud began in 1993 when Hubert left the show after a contractual dispute and was subsequently replaced by Daphne Maxwell Reid. Smith, in a radio interview at the time, seemingly sided with the show’s producers, suggesting that Hubert had wanted the show to be “The Aunt Viv of Bel-Air Show.” This public jab ignited a fire that would smolder for decades, with Hubert labeling Smith an “egomaniac” who “has not grown up” and demanding an apology.

Fast-forward to 2011, when Smith extended an invitation for a cast reunion on social media. Hubert’s response was swift and scathing, telling TMZ that she would never participate in a reunion with Smith, whom she referred to as an “a——.” However, in a surprising turn of events, the two finally put their differences aside during the show’s 30-year HBO Max reunion special in 2020.

During this special, Smith and Hubert engaged in a candid conversation, addressing the pain and hurt that had been festering for years. Hubert revealed that she had been offered a subpar contract, which she refused to accept, leading to her departure from the show. She also shared that she was going through a “very abusive marriage” at the time, which contributed to the tension on set. Smith, visibly moved by Hubert’s words, apologized for his past behavior, acknowledging that he had been unaware of the struggles she was facing.

In a heartwarming display of redemption, Smith expressed his desire to be someone who protects and celebrates Hubert’s contributions, rather than someone who unleashes harm. This poignant moment marked a significant turning point in their relationship, as they began to heal and move forward.

In a recent interview on “The Big Tigger Show,” Hubert shared that Smith has been supportive of her independent animated feature, “JG and the BC Kids,” even creating a website to help promote it. This gesture of goodwill is a testament to the progress they’ve made in rebuilding their relationship.

Interestingly, Hubert also came to Smith’s defense in 2022, when he faced backlash for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars. While she acknowledged that both actions were incorrect, she celebrated Smith’s win and praised him for standing up for himself.

As we reflect on the complex narrative of Will Smith and Janet Hubert’s feud, it’s clear that their story is one of hurt, anger, and ultimately, redemption. Their journey serves as a poignant reminder that even in the midst of turmoil, forgiveness and growth are possible.

And so, as we close this chapter on their tumultuous relationship, we’re left with a sense of hope and renewal – a testament to the power of forgiveness and the human spirit.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and The New York Post, Complex, TMZ
Attribution: Granny Smith Apple — Nicole-Koehler (CC BY-SA 3.0) (OV)