Actor James Avery is dead.

Actor James Avery, best known for his role as Uncle Phil in The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, has died, according to reports.

The 65-year-old's death was announced by Alfonso Ribeiro - who played onscreen son Carlton Banks in the 1990s hit sitcom - on his Facebook page.

He wrote: "The world has lost a truly special man. I am very saddened to say that James Avery has passed.

"Even though he played my father on TV, he was a wonderful father figure to me in life. He will be deeply missed."

TMZ.com claims the New Jersey-born star passed away after surgery for an undisclosed illness.

Avery also provided the voice of Shredder for animated series Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Alfonso Ribeiro        ✔ @alfonso_ribeiro

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

6:55 PM - 1 Jan 2014

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May his soul rest in perfect peace.