James Avery, who became famous for his role as Will Smith's character's uncle in the TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, passed away on Tuesday due to complications from open-heart surgery, reports said.

His death was also confirmed by his "Fresh Prince" co-star Alfonso Ribeiro who 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."

Avery succumbed to death at a Los Angeles hospital with his wife Barbara by his side.

Shortly after the sad news hit the web, fans and colleagues took time to pay tribute to Avery who also became legendary for becoming the voice of Shredder in the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles television series and War Machine in the animated series Iron Man.

Will Smith's wife Jada Pinkett Smith turned to her Facebook page to express their family's sadness over the passing of Avery.

"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.

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

On Twitter, where his real name, character name Uncle Phil, and RIP James Avery trended for several hours, fans offered their condolences and tribute to the American actor.

Trudy @thetrudz

Everyone knows James Avery as "Uncle Phil" which was a GREAT role. But bruh had a looooong resume too. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0043041/ RIP.

Sheneka Adams @iamShenekaAdams

Damn, say it ain't so. James Avery has passed away! I loved him on fresh prince of bel air, and he was... https://instagram.com/p/ioubbSkO8Y/

Jay Pharoah ‏@JayPharoah 12m

NO WAYYY UNCLE PHIL?!! Aww man R.I.P James Avery we're losing too many good ones.