Fresh Prince star gives update on Will Smith reconciliation amid $1M payout rumors after bitter decades-long feud

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In simpler terms, Janet Hubert – best known for her role as Aunt Vivian in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air – clarifies that her past issues with Will Smith were not due to any reported million-dollar compensation dispute.

During an episode of The Big Tigger Show this week, the 68-year-old actress, who is famously remembered as Aunt Vivian from the classic ’90s sitcom, shared an honest view with fans about her current relationship with Smith after their reconciliation.

She praised their friendship, stating it was truly exceptional, and then acknowledged the Oscar-winning actor for providing her more than just financial assistance. “I want to give a shout-out to my friend – I’d like to give credit where it’s due. He set up the website with his team for me.

As a dedicated follower of Hubert’s talent, I couldn’t just stand by while she struggled to bring her animation project to life. So, instead of handing over a hefty sum to fix past errors, I decided to invest in her future success. This meant funding her website, backing her animation project, and even granting access to my entire tech and social media team to help boost her online presence and reach new audiences. It’s an honor to be part of Hubert’s journey!

He even helped her with presentations for Netflix and Amazon.

When asked if he gave her millions, she answered:’ He didn’t give me millions of dollars.’ 

In response, co-host Jazzy McBee stated that Smith provided her with the necessary resources and that was quite sufficient.

Hubert concurred, disclosing that Smith took it a step further by accompanying her at a charity event for the Embrace Girls Foundation in Miami, an organization she has backed for over twenty years.

As a passionate advocate for enriching lives, I recently found myself spending an enlightening afternoon with 300 extraordinary children who are often overlooked in our community. I was thrilled to join forces with the remarkable team behind Ride or Die: The Bad Boys, where we spent three rewarding hours distributing books, T-shirts, and sharing heartwarming stories as part of Hubert’s inspiring project. It was a truly moving experience that left me feeling grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in their lives.

The new information emerges approximately five years following their reunion during the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion special on HBO Max, marking the end of a longstanding, acrimonious disagreement which had persisted for almost three decades.

At the reunion event, the actors mended their emotional bond with the clinical psychologist, Dr. Ramani Durvasula, who was present and assisted in the process.

She expressed her strong disapproval, saying, “What you did was unacceptable to me. Indeed, I found what you did in the past intolerable. Your actions robbed me of a 30-year career.” Trying hard to hold back tears, she added, “When you were young, you overstepped boundaries and I’ve always known that you felt compelled to prevail.

Smith admitted that he overstepped boundaries by saying things to individuals who might not be able to handle such information. Once this information was inputted, the machine would automatically pick it up and generate its interpretation or perspective about it.

The original rift dates back to 1993, when Hubert exited the sitcom after three seasons. 

In that period, Smith openly branded her as ‘challenging’ and ‘unorthodox’, a reputation that, according to Hubert, severely hampered her professional progression.

During that time, Smith publicly dubbed her as ‘tough’ and ‘improper’, a label that, as per Hubert, negatively impacted her career trajectory significantly.

‘Referring to a Black woman as challenging in Hollywood can be a fatal blow,’ she clarified during their gathering.

Since then, both stars have taken steps toward healing. 

Smith openly admitted his errors during an interview with Vice’s Black Comedy in America, stating: “I committed a massive blunder, underestimating her worth, power, and beauty on the show.

For Hubert, the public reconciliation has blossomed into genuine friendship.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I must express that I’ve been thoroughly captivated by Smith’s latest work in King Richard. His Oscar-winning portrayal has undeniably been the most delightful acting experience I’ve had since Hidden Figures.

Shared snippets of Hubert’s radio interview rapidly made their way through various social media platforms, with fans expressing joy over the apparent mending of a previously troubled relationship.

‘Ms. Janet looks rejuvenated & happy — so glad Will came to his senses,’ one wrote. 

An additional comment was made, expressing gratitude that people understand reconciliation as a healing journey that works. Relinquishing or letting go is a source of blessings.

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2025-09-11 00:19