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"Firing" Aunt Viv: Janet Hubert and the ...

Younge, Ayana, Hol...

Case

"Firing" Aunt Viv: Janet Hubert and the Long-Awaited Apology

Younge, Ayana; Holmes, Jeanne J.; Kemp, Bianca

OB-1472 | Published November 11, 2024 | 11 pages Case

Collection: Darden School of Business

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Using the nearly 30-year-long feud between actors Will Smith and Janet Hubert as a backdrop, this publicly sourced case invites students to consider the purpose and impact of apologies on professional and personal relationships. In the early 1990s, Smith starred as himself in the popular television series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Fresh Prince), while Hubert played his character’s “Aunt Viv” until she suddenly left the show in 1993. During the ensuing years, Fresh Prince aired another 74 episodes, Hubert’s career slowed and then stalled, and Smith became an international superstar—all while Smith, Hubert, and other cast members traded accusations amid rumors of what had led to Hubert’s departure. But what had really happened on the set? In preparation for the Smith-led 30-year Fresh Prince reunion, Smith invited Hubert to sit down to discuss what only they knew happened. And ultimately, Smith apologized. But was his apology enough? And who was really to blame? This case is designed to facilitate the exploration and discussion of ways to go about repairing relationships, focusing on the art of apologies. Additionally, the material presents an opportunity to underscore the possibilities and impact of relationship dissolution. Finally, it allows for deeper understanding of the impact of (in)effective apologies and the importance of managing conflict to mend and strengthen relationships.