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Bel-Air

Now, this is a (true?) story all about how Will Smith‘s life got flipped-turned upside down. Bel-Air, the dead-serious reboot of Smith’s OG sitcom The Fresh Prince is now streaming on Peacock. Following Will’s journey into his new life with his aunt and uncle in Bel-Air, the new series takes a deeper look at what life might actually be like, versus the more comedic take in the ’90s. Since the character’s name is literally “Will Smith,” you’re probably scratching your head trying to figure out if this is the real story behind the beloved actor. Let’s take a look.

Bel-Air debuted on Super Bowl night, defying all odds and gaining quite some traction even amidst the hubbub of the game. The show stars Jabari Banks as a 16-year-old Smith, moving back and forth between two different lifestyles. The first three episodes have already debuted, with more already on the way.

Here’s everything you need to know about the true story behind Bel-Air.

Is Bel-Air based on a true story?

Nope. Bel-Air is entirely a work of fiction. It is, however, based on something. Keep reading to find out what.

What is Bel-Air based on?

Bel-Air is based on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, of course! You might be a little confused because Jabari Banks plays “Will Smith” in the show. But the story behind that Will Smith isn’t actually Will Smith’s story. Smith starred as the character in the original sitcom, and this story just picks up the same sorts of threads. Andy and Susan Borowitz, who created the original story, also co-created Bel-Air.

Is The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air based on a true story?

Kind of. Debuting in 1990, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air was loosely based on Will Smith’s real life persona, but all of the episodes are pure fiction. It’s a sitcom, not a biopic!