Janet Louise Hubert, a talented actress, dancer, and singer, was born in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. She is most notably recognized for her iconic portrayal of the sassy, witty, outgoing, and protective mom, Vivian Banks, on the hit television sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which premiered in 1990.
Janet Hubert's childhood was marked by a significant move from her hometown of Momence, Illinois, to New York City, where she won a prestigious scholarship to attend the renowned Julliard School. Following her studies at Juilliard, she immersed herself in the world of dance, training under the guidance of esteemed instructors, including the legendary Alvin Ailey and David Howard.
Janet's impressive Broadway credentials include debuts in "The First" and notable performances in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and "Dancin'." She was also a member of the original Broadway cast of "CATS," where she originated the role of Tantomile and served as the understudy for the iconic Betty Buckley, performing the title role in New York City.
However, it was her breakout role as Vivian Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air in 1990 that cemented her place in the hearts of audiences nationwide. Since then, she has made guest appearances on a range of popular television shows, including Gilmore Girls, Friends, The Bernie Mac Show, Tales from the Crypt, and Tyler Perry's House of Payne, in 2006.
Janet has been a vocal advocate for osteoporosis awareness, having battled the condition herself, and has recently been appointed as an ambassador for the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Throughout her illustrious career, she has demonstrated her remarkable versatility as an actress, dancer, and singer.
To many, Janet will forever be remembered as a strong-willed yet elegant, original, and unforgettable Vivian Banks, a character that embodies the essence of her own remarkable personality.
