Biography

Jabari Banks is an American actor and musician best known for his breakout leading role as Will Smith in the Peacock drama series Bel‑Air (2022–2025), a dramatic reimagining of the iconic 1990s sitcom. Born on August 2, 1998, in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Banks developed an early interest in performing through acting, music, and musical theater before pursuing his professional career in television and film.

 

Banks made his on-screen debut with Bel-Air, quickly earning recognition for anchoring the series as its central character. His performance brought emotional depth to the modernized version of Will Smith and earned him multiple award nominations, including NAACP Image Award nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series and a BET Award nomination for Best Actor. The series ran for four seasons and became a defining role that established Banks as one of television’s rising young leading men.

 

Following his television breakthrough, Banks expanded into feature films and voice acting. He appeared in the 2024 thriller Bad Genius, portraying Bank Adedamola, marking his first major film role. He also contributed voice work to the animated feature Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw (2025), further demonstrating his range across genres and formats. Additional screen credits include roles in American Dream: The 21 Savage Story and the short film Please Return Your Cart, highlighting his continued growth beyond his breakout television success.

 

In addition to acting, Banks is also an accomplished musician, releasing original music under the name Jabari, including his 2025 EP ULTRA. His creative work reflects his multidisciplinary approach to storytelling and performance.

 

As his career continues to evolve, Jabari Banks has established himself as a dynamic and versatile performer, transitioning from breakout television star to emerging film actor and creative artist, with Bel-Air serving as the foundation for a promising and expanding career in Hollywood.