James Avery 'Uncle Phil' death mourned on Twitter: Celebrities react to 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' star death from open heart surgery complications

"The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" star James Avery has died at the age of 68 during open heart surgery complications. Fans and friends of the actor who played Uncle Phil on the hit television show mourned the loss of the actor on twitter and other social media outlets.

Tatiana Ali tweeted, "James was my teacher my protector & the most magnificent actor. We're feeling his loss very deeply. He'll always be apart of me ‪#JamesAvery"

Alfonso Ribeiro tweeted, "I'm deeply saddened to say that James Avery has passed away. He was a second father to me. I will miss him greatly."

Ross Bagley tweeted,  "I am deeply saddened by the news of James Avery passing, he was a great man first and actor second. He will be missed....smh" he added, "I'm lowkey sick about this news...he treated me like family while we were on set."

Jada Pinkett Smith wrote on "Happy New Year everyone! I was hoping to start the new year differently but we have lost yet another friend. James Avery who we all lovingly know as Uncle Phil from The Fresh Prince has passed."

Pinkett added on her Facebook, "Our condolences to aunt Florence (his mother), Miss Barbara (his wife) and all those who loved him. Rest in peace James."

Kym Whitley tweeted, "My heart is heavy. My 1st sitcom was w/ James Avery. I thank him 4 his wisdom. My heart goes out to his wife Barbra."

RIP Uncle Phil