The Two Aunt Vivs: Where Are Janet Hubert And Daphne Maxwell Reid Now? (Latest 2025 Update)
The character of Aunt Vivian Banks from the iconic 90s sitcom *The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air* remains one of television's most memorable matriarchs, yet she is uniquely defined by the two talented actresses who played her. The story of "Aunt Viv" is not just about a fictional character; it's a dramatic tale of Hollywood controversy, a high-profile feud, and, most recently, a deeply emotional reconciliation that continues to make headlines in December 2025. The original Aunt Viv, Janet Hubert, has even made a stunning return to the franchise, proving that the saga of the Banks family is far from over.
This article dives deep into the lives and careers of both Janet Hubert and Daphne Maxwell Reid, uncovering the true story behind the infamous recast, the details of their long-awaited reunion with Will Smith, and the current projects that keep both women at the forefront of the entertainment world today, including a major update on the *Bel-Air* reboot.
The Two Aunt Vivians: Complete Biographies and Roles
The role of Aunt Vivian Banks was split between two distinct actresses, each bringing a unique energy and presence to the Bel-Air mansion. Understanding their backgrounds is key to appreciating the full arc of the character.
Janet Hubert (The Original Aunt Viv: Seasons 1–3)
- Full Name: Janet Louise Johnson
- Born: January 13, 1956 (Age 69 as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
- Education: Juilliard School, New York City (studied dance)
- Key Roles Before *Fresh Prince*: Broadway productions, including the original cast of *Cats* (Tantomile).
- Her Aunt Viv: Known for her sharp wit, fierce intelligence, and powerful, often fiery, personality. She was a dynamic, professional dancer and a strong counterpoint to Will Smith's character.
- Departure: Left the show in 1993 after season three due to a highly publicized feud with Will Smith and what she cited as "creative differences" and personal issues related to a difficult pregnancy.
Daphne Maxwell Reid (The Second Aunt Viv: Seasons 4–6)
- Full Name: Daphne Etta Maxwell
- Born: July 13, 1948 (Age 77 as of 2025)
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, U.S.
- Education: Northwestern University (B.A. in Interior Design), where she was the first African-American homecoming queen.
- Key Roles Before *Fresh Prince*: Recurring roles on shows like *Simon & Simon* and *Frank's Place*. She was also a successful model.
- Her Aunt Viv: Presented a softer, more reserved, and traditional persona. The character's shift in tone was noticeable to fans, leading to the term "The Other Aunt Viv."
- Post-*Fresh Prince* Career: Continued acting, but also became a celebrated photographer and published author, releasing five photography books and a cookbook titled *Grace, Soul & Motherwit*.
The Infamous Recast: Feud, Pregnancy, and Creative Differences
The sudden change of the actress playing Aunt Viv is one of the most talked-about recastings in television history, fueling decades of speculation and controversy. The reality, as revealed in recent years, is a complex mix of on-set tension and personal struggles.
The Feud with Will Smith. The primary narrative that dominated the media was the friction between Janet Hubert and series star Will Smith. Hubert has stated that Smith's words and public comments about her being "difficult" essentially "killed her career" for nearly 30 years. She felt her reputation was severely damaged, a sentiment she powerfully expressed during their eventual reunion.
The Pregnancy and Contract. A less-discussed but crucial factor was Hubert's real-life pregnancy during the third season. She revealed that her contract was cut, and she was offered a difficult deal that drastically reduced her role and salary, which she refused. This, combined with the on-set disagreements, led to her departure in 1993, with the show citing "creative differences."
The Arrival of Daphne Maxwell Reid. Daphne Maxwell Reid stepped into the role for season four, completing the series' run. She has always maintained a professional stance on the situation, stating that accepting the role was "just business" and that she focused on making the character her own. Her version of Vivian Banks was visibly different—not just in appearance but in her portrayal of a Bel-Air socialite and professor, leading to a significant shift in the show's dynamic and the character's topical authority.
The Emotional Reconciliation: The 30th Anniversary Reunion
The most significant and recent development in the Aunt Viv saga occurred in 2020 during the HBO Max *The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion Special*. This event provided a long-awaited and emotional resolution to the decades-long feud between Janet Hubert and Will Smith.
A Candid Conversation. For the first time in 27 years, Hubert and Smith sat down for a candid, one-on-one discussion. Hubert was able to share the pain and professional damage she suffered from the public narrative that painted her as "difficult" and "hard to work with." Smith, in turn, acknowledged his immaturity and apologized for his role in propagating the damaging narrative, admitting he was young, insecure, and felt threatened at the time.
A Full-Circle Moment. This heartfelt conversation was a major full-circle moment for the franchise and its fans. The reconciliation was hailed as a powerful example of healing and accountability in Hollywood. Following their talk, Hubert was embraced by the rest of the original cast, including Alfonso Ribeiro (Carlton Banks) and Tatyana Ali (Ashley Banks), finally putting the controversy to rest.
What Daphne Maxwell Reid Said About the Reunion
Daphne Maxwell Reid was also present at the reunion. She expressed her happiness for the reconciliation, stating she "embraced" Janet Hubert during the taping. This moment highlighted the mutual respect between the two actresses who shared the same iconic role, proving that the drama was between Hubert and Smith, not between the two "Aunt Vivs."
The Latest Update: Janet Hubert's Shocking Return to Bel-Air (2025)
In a major piece of news that underscores the complete healing of the past, Janet Hubert is set to make a guest appearance in the final season (Season 4) of the contemporary Peacock reboot, *Bel-Air*.
A Symbolic Appearance. This guest spot is highly symbolic, marking Hubert's first return to the franchise in any on-screen capacity since 1993. While the details of her role are under wraps, her appearance alongside the new cast, which includes Cassandra Freeman as the modern Aunt Viv, is a testament to the closure achieved during the reunion. It signifies a complete creative and personal reconciliation with the *Fresh Prince* legacy and the show's producers, including Will Smith.
The Legacy of Aunt Viv. The character of Aunt Vivian Banks—in both her iterations—is a symbol of black excellence, academia, and strength. Janet Hubert's original portrayal as a professor and dancer set a high bar, while Daphne Maxwell Reid maintained the character's status as the sophisticated matriarch of the Banks family. Their combined legacy is a powerful and complex entity that has sparked critical discussions about colorism, on-set politics, and the treatment of black actresses in Hollywood.
Where They Are Now (2025):
- Janet Hubert: Continues to act in various projects and is preparing for her highly anticipated guest role in *Bel-Air* Season 4. Her public profile is focused on advocacy and sharing her story of professional resilience.
- Daphne Maxwell Reid: Remains active in the arts as a photographer, author, and designer. She frequently attends conventions and events, discussing her extensive career, which spans modeling, acting, and entrepreneurship. Her work in publishing and photography showcases her diverse talents outside of television.
The journey of the two Aunt Vivs—from a bitter feud to a public reconciliation and a historic return—is a powerful narrative of redemption and professional closure, ensuring that the legacy of Aunt Vivian Banks remains one of the most compelling stories in television history.
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