Olly Sholotan has brought a fresh, layered take to Carlton Banks in Peacock’s Bel-Air, reimagining the iconic role first made famous by Alfonso Ribeiro in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Appearing on today’s episode of Scoop B Radio, Sholotan opened up about his connection with Ribeiro, his inspirations for playing Carlton, and how fans have warmed up to his version of the character over time.
On His Relationship with Alfonso Ribeiro
While Ribeiro’s portrayal of Carlton remains legendary, Sholotan has yet to have an in-depth conversation with the original actor. He shared:
“I haven’t. Alfonso and I haven’t gotten the chance to really link up yet. He’s very busy. I’ve been very busy with the show and other projects. But I know there is so much love there. I met him very briefly at the Bad Boys 4 premiere. I got to shake his hand and just tell him thank you. I think he’s proud of the work we’re doing and he’s proud of the different layers that have been brought to a character that he originated; that he birthed. But you know, I don’t want to put words in his mouth, but I think he’s pretty proud.”
On His Inspiration for Carlton Banks in Bel-Air
Unlike Ribeiro’s comedic, dance-loving take on Carlton, Sholotan’s version brings a more complex and nuanced portrayal. When asked who influenced his performance, he revealed:
“It’s funny, I drew inspiration from people who aren’t necessarily huge well-known figures because I think the character of Carlton is one we don’t see often; but that’s like a kid we all knew growing up! And that’s a kid we all judged growing up, that’s a kid that we all; some of us saw as a kid that some of us saw as not really like us. So my goal was, ‘Alright, let’s get into this kid’s head and see why he is the way that he is and let’s humanize him.’ So I drew inspiration from people I grew up with; people that I saw as kids. People I saw who kinda dealt with the stuff that they’ve dealt with.”
On Carlton’s Evolution in Bel-Air
Some fans have argued that Sholotan’s Carlton is more likable than Ribeiro’s. But for Olly, it’s all about growth.
“Interesting. You know, I think a lot of people did not feel that way the first season; even the second season! I think now what’s beautiful is how the character’s been written and we’ve been able to watch him evolve. You see this character who does come across as a little abrasive and then by season three you’re protective over him; you want to see him grow.”
On Carlton’s Season 1 Persona
And yeah, we had to address it—his Season 1 Carlton was a jerk. Even Olly agreed:
“100 hundred percent! Oh, one hundred percent! From the moment in that first episode when Will walks into Carlton’s room and you see him hunched over the closet, you’re like: ‘Damn, I hate him.’”From a despised antagonist to a character fans want to root for, Olly Sholotan’s take on Carlton Banks is making waves. With Bel-Air continuing to develop the complexities of its characters, it’s safe to say that this fresh take on the Banks family is just getting started.
You can watch Olly Sholotan’s full interview on Scoop B Radio by clicking here.
