Part II:  This episode bookends our March Women's History Month as a tall glass of sweet Virginian iced tea between Tori Reid and her step mother.  We celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series finale (May 20, 1996) of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air". Our Aunt Viv discusses her sweet joy and well lived memories from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion special on HBO Max, the late great James Avery, the surprise first time union with Janet Hubert, and Will Smith’s inspiring journey to growth and acceptance.  From sitcom to reality, they examine their own blended family; decades of blood, sweat and tears in a beautiful, though frank, conversation between two powerhouse women. They make it look easy and beautiful but it is like the graceful chocolate swan gliding in the sometimes murky waters of life’s vast ocean. The two women laugh, keep it authentic and celebrate the victories, valleys, peaks and exalt one another in this piece of Virginian and Hollywood Americana.

Here’s to the grace, soul and mother wit of Daphne Maxwell Reid.

“We are a blended family. Like the Banks family, the Reids have had an uncommon success. Our harmony has come through the blending of time, belly laughter, family celebrations, bumpy roads and the greatest of all virtues, Love Almighty. So, here's to the love that is earned. The Love that pushes past the hurt, confusion, anger... to become stronger, more resilient, battle tested and true. Here’s to family.” - Tori Reid

This week on Here's To Life:
•  Reflections on memories of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion special on HBO Max, including the late great James Avery and the warm and wonderful rejoining of Janet Hubert and their meeting for the first time
•  Her experience with blended families and insight gained and shared on the bumpy, yet beautiful ride of her own blended family
•  How respect is key within blended family relationships especially between step-parents and step-children
•  Exploring power couples as the iconic Tim Reid and Daphne Maxwell Reid, and how they make it work

Credits:

Guest:  Daphne Maxwell Reid
Host and Producer:  Tori Reid
Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell
Co-Executive Producer:  Tori Reid
Writers:  Patrick A. Howell and Tori Reid
Post Production:  We Edit Podcasts
Add'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven Soundz
Post Production Assistant:  Lauren Young
Show Intern Affiliation:  Howard University
Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake Moore
Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water Systems
Advertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden West
Ad Voiceover Artist:  Ginger Levert
Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images

Music:
"Frio Suave" by Elevador

a Victory & Noble production
© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved

Resources Mentioned:

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion on HBO Max

Connect with the Guests:

Daphne Maxwell Reid's Official Website
Daphne Maxwell Reid on Instagram

Connect with Tori Reid:

Tori Reid on Instagram
Here's To Life on Facebook

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