“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” cast members have addressed James Avery’s passing.

Avery, who played Philip Banks on the television series, passed away December 31. The 68-year-old actor passed away due to complications from open heart surgery, which took place in November, according to Avery’s representative, as per CNN.

After Avery’s passing was announced, many rappers mourned the actor’s death via social networking sites.

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“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” featured rapper-actor Will Smith and his deejay, DJ Jazzy Jeff. Jeff and other co-stars recently mourned Avery’s passing via social networking sites as well, as reported by mtv.com. Will Smith has yet to make a public statement on Avery’s passing. 

RELATED:James Avery, Will Smith’s Uncle Phil On “Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air,” Passes Away