Meet Phillip Banks!

 

"Bel-Air" reimagines the fundamental concept of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," infusing it with a contemporary and dramatic approach. It unfolds in modern-day America, delving into the characters' hardships, obstacles, and dreams in a more sincere and lifelike fashion than the original sitcom. Described as a drama with comedic elements, "Bel-Air" maintains some humor while also delving deeply into the characters' experiences with social and cultural challenges, tackling themes such as race, social class, identity, and family dynamics.

The series continues to revolve around a young man named Will, who is from from a challenging neighborhood in Philadelphia. A significant event dramatically alters Will's life. In order to get away from the dangerous streets of Philadelphia, he is sent to reside with his affluent Aunt Viv, Uncle Phil, and their children—Hilary, Carlton, and Ashley—in the upscale Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles.

In "Bel-Air," one of the key characters is Phil Banks. Phil is Will's uncle and a lawyer who is running for the position of LA District Attorney. His upbringing in Yamacraw, North Carolina deeply shaped his views on the law. In Yamacraw, he observed how the legal system could be used to exploit people who didn't fully comprehend it. His own parents suffered a loss when their farmland was taken through eminent domain because they lacked the knowledge to challenge it. This experience motivated him to pursue a law degree. One of his earliest legal cases was in Yamacraw, where he successfully fought for compensation for the land his family lost when he was a child. Additionally, during his academic journey to become a lawyer, Philip became a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

Uncle Phil has several important goals:

Family Success: He is devoted to ensuring his wife, Vivian, and their children (Carlton, Hilary, and Ashley) have a good life. Being a responsible father and husband is a top priority.

Professional Success: Uncle Phil is a successful lawyer in Bel-Air. He is committed to his career and believes in upholding the law and maintaining high professional standards.

Moral Integrity: He has strong moral values and aims to teach his children and nephew, Will, the importance of doing what's right, even when faced with societal pressures or personal challenges. He is a champion of justice and fairness.

Support for Will: While initially skeptical of Will's street-smart attitude, Uncle Phil evolves to become a father figure to him. He wants to help Will adapt to his new life in Bel-Air and succeed.

Financial Stability: Uncle Phil is concerned about keeping his family financially secure. His career success allows him to provide a comfortable life for his loved ones in the affluent Bel-Air community.