While some fans might not know, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air played a significant role in helping Will Smith get out of financial trouble. Prior to his role in the show, Will owed a large sum of $2.8 million to the IRS as a result of not paying taxes despite his successful career as a rapper. By the time he got the show, most of his possessions had been taken away.
For a period of time, 70% of Will’s earnings were deducted until the debt was fully paid off, which he accomplished around the same time Season 3 ended. However, Will eventually adopted a new approach towards managing his finances and is now estimated to be worth $350 million.