West Philadelphia street renamed “Will Smith Way” in honour of the city’s original Fresh Prince

The intersection of North 59th Street and Lancaster Avenue in West Philadelphia now has a new name.

City officials passed a resolution for this on March 6, saying they are proud to honor a hometown superstar, like Will Smith. A special ceremony on Wednesday highlighted his career and his contributions to the city of Philadelphia.

The newly named street, formerly the 2000 block of North 59th Street, sits just steps away from Overbrook High School, the Philly native’s alma mater, where his iconic nickname was born. During the dedication ceremony, Smith shouted out Brenda Brown, his tenth-grade teacher. Brown first dubbed him “Prince Charming,” a moniker he famously adapted into “The Fresh Prince.” Mayor Cherelle Parker and other Philadelphia officials joined Smith for the festivities, which included dedicating a basketball court in his honor and presenting him with a ceremonial key to the city.