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Entertainment • Actress

Janet Hubert

Janet Hubert is an American actress and dancer best known for originating the role of Vivian Banks on the television sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Janet Hubert is an American actress and dancer best known for originating the role of Vivian Banks on the television sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. She was born Janet Louise Hubert on January 13, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois. Hubert has also worked in theatre and other television roles.

Early life and training

Janet Louise Hubert was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 13, 1956. Biographical sources describe her as trained in dance and acting, and note work in theatre and performance before her television breakthrough.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Hubert is best known for playing Vivian Banks, the original Aunt Viv, during the first three seasons of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Her portrayal became the role most closely associated with her public profile.

Later work

After The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Hubert continued acting in television and other screen projects. Sources note appearances in shows such as Gilmore Girls, Friends, The Bernie Mac Show, House of Payne, and Pose.

Recognition

Hubert received an NAACP Image Award nomination in 1991 for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series. She later received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for her role in King Ester in 2020.

Key facts

  • Hubert portrayed Vivian Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air from 1990 to 1993.
  • She received an NAACP Image Award nomination in 1991 for that role.
  • Her performance in the digital series King Ester earned her a Daytime Emmy Award nomination in 2020.
  • She has also appeared in television guest roles and stage productions.
  • Some biographical sources describe her as an actress, dancer, and singer.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Janet Hubert?
Janet Hubert is an American actress and dancer best known for playing Vivian Banks, the original Aunt Viv, on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
When was Janet Hubert born?
She was born on January 13, 1956.
Where was Janet Hubert born?
Sources identify her birthplace as Chicago, Illinois, United States.
What role made Janet Hubert famous?
She became widely known for portraying Vivian Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air from 1990 to 1993.
Has Janet Hubert received major award recognition?
Yes. She was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in 1991 and a Daytime Emmy Award in 2020.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janet_Hubert
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, occupation, best-known role, NAACP Image Award nomination, and Daytime Emmy nomination.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0399494/bio/
    Supports: Birth details, alternate name, occupation, and selected television credits.
  3. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/janet-hubert/bio/3000003278/
    Supports: Career overview, training, Broadway and television work, and role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.