Alfonso Ribeiro is a multifaceted American entertainer, known for his talents as an actor, director, dancer, and television personality. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around $4 million, reflecting a career that has spanned over four decades in television, film, and live entertainment. Ribeiro’s versatile contributions to pop culture have made him a household name, especially for his iconic role as Carlton Banks on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on September 21, 1971, in the Bronx, New York, Alfonso Ribeiro grew up in a family with Caribbean roots, which fostered a passion for performance from an early age. Now 53 years old, Ribeiro’s introduction to show business came at just eight years old when he starred in the Broadway production of “The Tap Dance Kid.” His performance earned him critical acclaim and a nomination for an Outer Critics Circle Award, marking the start of a lifelong career in entertainment.
By the early 1980s, Ribeiro gained additional visibility when he appeared alongside Michael Jackson in a memorable Pepsi commercial. Despite a false rumor circulating at the time that he was injured during the shoot, Ribeiro continued to rise in the industry. His early television break came when he was cast as Alfonso Spears on the NBC sitcom “Silver Spoons” (1984-1987), showcasing his natural charm and comedic timing.
Breakthrough as Carlton Banks
Ribeiro’s most defining role came in 1990 when he joined the cast of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” playing the lovable and uptight Carlton Banks, opposite Will Smith. The series, which aired until 1996, became a cultural phenomenon. Ribeiro’s portrayal of Carlton Banks, complete with his signature dance to Tom Jones’ “It’s Not Unusual,” left an indelible mark on 90s pop culture. “The Carlton Dance” became synonymous with Ribeiro himself, generating countless imitations and viral moments, even decades later.
Following the conclusion of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” Ribeiro successfully transitioned to other roles, including voicing characters Randy and Robbie Robertson on the animated “Spider-Man” series and starring as Dr. Maxwell Stanton in the sitcom “In the House” from 1996 to 1999.
Expanding Horizons: Hosting and Reality TV Success
Ribeiro diversified his career further with roles in reality television and game shows. In 2008, he became the host of GSN’s “Catch 21,” a blackjack-themed game show he helmed until 2011. His engaging personality and quick wit made him a natural in the hosting role, leading to further opportunities in television.
In 2014, Ribeiro took on a new challenge by competing in Season 19 of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.” Paired with professional dancer Witney Carson, he wowed audiences with his technical skill and charisma, ultimately winning the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. His victory cemented his reputation as more than just an actor — he was a bona fide entertainer.
Since 2015, Ribeiro has hosted the long-running television series “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” succeeding Tom Bergeron. His role on the show has kept him a staple on family television, and he has remained a steady presence through multiple seasons, including during the pandemic-era adjustments in 2020 when the show transitioned to a virtual audience format.
Directorial Work and Other Ventures
Beyond acting and hosting, Ribeiro has also carved a niche as a television director. He directed episodes of the sitcoms “All of Us” (2006-2007), “Meet the Browns” (2009-2010), and “Are We There Yet?” (2011-2012), showcasing his behind-the-camera talents.
In 2018, Ribeiro expanded his hosting credentials internationally by leading the UK game show “Money Tree.” The following year, he launched a syndicated radio show titled “The 90s with Alfonso Ribeiro,” alongside radio veteran Daena Kramer. The weekly program celebrates 90s nostalgia through music, pop culture anecdotes, and personal stories.
Personal Life and Family
Away from the spotlight, Ribeiro enjoys a fulfilling personal life. He was previously married to Robin Stapler, with whom he shares a daughter. In 2012, Ribeiro married Angela Unkrich, a writer and blogger. Together, they have three children: Alfonso Lincoln Ribeiro Jr. (born in 2013), Anders Reyn Ribeiro (born in 2015), and Ava Sue Ribeiro (born in 2019). The family resides in Los Angeles, where they balance Ribeiro’s active career with a focus on family life.
Business Moves and Legal Battles
Ribeiro has also made headlines outside of television. In 2018, he filed a lawsuit against Epic Games for incorporating his famous “Carlton Dance” into the game “Fortnite” as an emote without his permission. However, the U.S. Copyright Office declined to recognize the dance as eligible for copyright protection, leading Ribeiro to drop the lawsuit in early 2019.
Real Estate Investments
In terms of real estate, Ribeiro made a significant move in November 2015 when he purchased a spacious eight-bedroom property in Granada Hills, California, for $1.94 million. Prior to this, he owned a home in Toluca Lake, which he sold for $1.5 million, marking a profitable exit from his earlier investment.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Ribeiro has received notable accolades, including two NAACP Image Awards: one for “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” in 1996 and another for “In the House” in 1998. In 2020, he earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Game Show Host for his work on “Catch 21.”
Final Thoughts
From Broadway stages to television stardom and reality show victories, Alfonso Ribeiro has built an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry. With a $4 million net worth and a career that continues to thrive, Ribeiro remains a respected figure who has successfully evolved with the times while staying connected to his roots in classic television.