Photo credit: Coco Jones
Coco Jones is stepping back into the world of Bel-Air with a potential spinoff centered on her fan-favorite character, Hilary Banks.
The actress and singer is set to reprise her role in Hilary, a new series currently in development at Peacock. The project comes from Tracy Oliver, known for Girls Trip and Harlem.
Coco Jones Returns as Hilary Banks
The proposed spinoff would follow Hilary as she leaves Los Angeles behind for New York City.
After accepting an unexpected job opportunity from celebrity chef Yvonne Durand, Hilary reportedly makes an impulsive move to New York. There, she hopes to establish herself without relying on the Banks family’s wealth, connections or reputation.
Her fresh start, however, will come with its own challenges as she navigates career ambitions, friendships and relationships in a new city.
The move would give Jones the opportunity to explore another chapter of Hilary’s story while putting the character in a completely different environment.
‘Hilary’ Gives Coco Jones a New Chapter
Jones’ version of Hilary evolved significantly throughout Bel-Air. The character began her journey as an aspiring influencer before moving toward culinary arts and finding a stronger sense of purpose.
The proposed spinoff would continue that growth while allowing Hilary to pursue independence away from her family’s influence.
Interestingly, the New York setting also connects the project to the original The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. In that series, Karyn Parsons’ version of Hilary also eventually moved to New York.
Tracy Oliver Is Attached to the Spinoff
Tracy Oliver is attached to write and executive produce the potential series. Oliver previously worked on projects including Girls Trip and Harlem. Coco Jones is also expected to executive produce alongside Oliver and other producers, including Will Smith.
The project comes from Westbrook Studios and Universal Television, the companies behind Bel-Air.
While the series is generating excitement among fans, Hilary is still in development. Peacock has not yet officially ordered the spinoff to series or announced a premiere date.
‘Bel-Air’ Universe Could Continue
Bel-Air concluded its four-season run in 2025 after reimagining The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air as a modern drama. Peacock describes the series as a dramatic take on Will’s journey from West Philadelphia to the wealthy community of Bel-Air.
A Hilary-centered series would allow the franchise to continue while giving one of its standout characters a new setting and storyline.
For Jones, it would also mark another major opportunity to put Hilary Banks at the center of her own story.
Source: Deadline
