Despite its relatively small size, the Banks family from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is easily one of the most iconic television sitcom families of
all time. While other memorable characters and even celebrities have shown up at different points in the beloved '90s sitcom, each member
of the Banks family has left a strong impression on audiences almost thirty years after its conclusion. Whether because of the hilarious
shenanigans that the Banks family finds themselves in or the heart-to-heart moments they share, the Banks resonated strongly with viewers.
The brilliant acting performances from the principal cast and the hilarious unscripted moments are just a handful of reasons why audiences
hold the fictional family in such high regard. While there are other popular and beloved sitcom families similar to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,
something about these characters has given them a special place in pop culture. From the oldest member to the youngest, the Banks family
has been responsible for bringing plenty of joy and laughter to families all over the world.
Often considered the best TV dad of all time, Uncle Phil is the strict but fair patriarch of the Banks family, as well as a hard-working lawyer
and ultimate judge. Played by the late James Avery, Uncle Phil was famous for his almost limitless patience and empathy towards anyone he
interacted with - especially when it came to matters involving Will. Despite Uncle Phil's towering presence, he always speaks to his wife
Vivian and daughters Hilary and Ashley in a gentle and respectful tone, because he wants to set a positive example for Carlton and Will.
Despite Will constantly trying Uncle Phil's patience, he never treats Will differently from his biological children and even goes out of his way
to ensure Will has a much better upbringing than what he was accustomed to prior to moving in. A particularly strong example of this is in the
tear-jerker season four episode "Papa's Got a Brand New Excuse" in which he consoles a hazardous Will after his biological father walks out
on him again. Whether engaging in petty rivalries with Geoffrey or standing up for his family, Uncle Phil is arguably the most respected
member of the Banks family.
Better known as Aunt Viv, Vivian Banks is the matriarch of the Banks family and is depicted as a hard-working and intelligent woman. Regal
and steadfast, Aunt Viv in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is someone whom many of the characters lean on whenever they need advice or
guidance without invoking the more stern Uncle Phil's wrath. Nevertheless, Aunt Viv has been seen occasionally showing her more stern side
- especially with Will and Carlton, whenever the situation calls for it.
A notable example of Aunt Viv's no-nonsense side was seen in the climax of the sixth episode of season 1, "Mistaken Identity" in which a
furious Aunt Viv and Uncle Phil threatens corrupt police officers with legal action after discovering they neglected to do their jobs properly in
favor of racially profiling Will and Carlton. Furthermore, Aunt Viv has been known to correct Uncle Phil in the rare instances when he's
unreasonable with the boys. A loving wife and caring mother, Aunt Viv cemented herself as one of television's greatest role models.
The eldest of the Banks' children, Hilary Banks is often depicted as someone who is incredibly vain, shallow, dim-witted, selfish, and snobby.
Her snobbish attitude was on full display early in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air's run when she was seen blatantly judging Will on account of his
rough educations despite not knowing much about him. Irrespective of her spiky exterior, her younger sister Ashley admires Hilary as she
knows deep down inside that she truly cares for her loved ones.
After the second episode of season 4, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way (Part 2)," Hilary's boyfriend Trevor tragically died in a bungee
jumping accident, and it has a profound effect on her. After processing what happens, she has an easier time admitting her faults and being
nicer, thus maturing more than any member of her family or character in the show. Despite her initial carelessness towards other people,
Hilary experiences plenty of growth that makes her much more likable throughout the show.
