In the 1990 - 1996 TV series Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Lou Smith (played by Ben Vereen) was a one-time character. He only appeared in the episode "Papa's Got a Brand New Excuse." Ben Vereen as Will's father is a full time trucker. He (Lou) abandoned his family (Will and Viola "Vy" Smith) when Will was just 3 or 4 years-old.

He is finally given a chance by Will to explain his motives for leaving. He tells Will, "he wasn't ready for fatherhood, that he 'started feeling trapped' and that he was scared." After the meeting and discussion, Lou never reappears. Will is very hurt by the incident with his father; he develops a deep resentment towards Lou. If Lou's name is ever mentioned, Will is ready to quickly say "I am nothing like my father."

This clever American sitcom is based on the actual life of Will "The Fresh Prince" Smith. It was produced by Quincy Jones and Will Smith. The focus is on Will, The Fresh Prince, who is from West Philadelphia. He moves to Bel-Air to live with his aunt, uncle, and cousins. Will's struggles and Bel-Air life story are presented in the TV series.

More Info: freshprince.wikia.com