Avery Family Genealogy & History

James La Rue Avery, an acclaimed American actor, is best known for his iconic role as Philip Banks in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." Renowned for his commanding presence and deep voice, Avery also played Judge Michael Conover on "L.A. Law" and voiced Shredder in "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." His illustrious career spanned decades, with notable performances in "The Closer" and "That '70s Show," and his voice brought characters to life in "Iron Man" and "Aladdin." Avery's contributions to the arts were recognized when he served as commencement speaker for UC San Diego's Thurgood Marshall College in 2007 and 2012, highlighting his impact and influence in entertainment and education.

James Avery was born on November 27, 1945, in Pughsville, Virginia, to Florence J. Avery. His father denied paternity, and he was not listed on his birth certificate. Raised by his mother, Avery's early life included a move to Atlantic City, New Jersey, where he attended high school. He later moved to San Diego, California, marking the beginning of his journey in acting and writing. In 1988, he married Barbara Avery, becoming a stepfather to her son, Kevin Waters, and forming a close-knit family.

Steven Allan Avery, born July 9, 1962, in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, became a notable figure after his wrongful conviction in 1985 for sexual assault and attempted murder, for which he served 18 years before being exonerated by DNA evidence in 2003. Avery's case sparked significant discussions on criminal justice reform, leading to the 2005 Criminal Justice Reform Bill. In 2007, he was convicted again, this time for the murder of Teresa Halbach, a verdict that has been widely publicized through the Netflix documentary series Making a Murderer. Despite ongoing advocacy for a new trial, his conviction remains upheld.

Steven Avery was born to Allan and Dolores Avery and grew up in rural Gibson, Wisconsin, where his family operated a salvage yard since 1965. He has three siblings: Chuck, Earl, and Barb. Avery's family background includes a supportive environment despite educational challenges, with Avery attending local public schools in Mishicot and Manitowoc. In 1982, he married Lori Mathiesen, and together they have four children: Rachel, Jenny, and twins Steven and Will.

Jackson Avery, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a fictional character from the popular ABC medical drama Grey's Anatomy, portrayed by Jesse Williams. Introduced in season 6, Jackson is a former surgical resident at Mercy West Medical Center who becomes a series regular in season 7. Specializing in plastic surgery, he ascends to the role of chief of the department. His storyline focuses on achieving professional success independently of his famous surgeon grandfather, Harper Avery. Jackson's romantic entanglements include relationships with Lexie Grey and April Kepner, with whom he has two children. He eventually leaves Seattle to run the Catherine Fox Foundation before rekindling his relationship with April in Boston.

Jackson Avery's family background is marked by medical prestige, being the grandson of Harper Avery, a distinguished surgeon and namesake of the Harper Avery Award. Raised by his mother, Catherine Fox, after his father, Robert, left the family, Jackson grew up under the influence of his grandmother's discussions on the nobility of surgery. Despite familial pressures, Jackson was determined to carve his own path, striving to be recognized for his achievements rather than his lineage.

Tex Avery, born Frederick Bean Avery, was a pioneering American animator, director, and cartoonist renowned for his work during the golden age of American animation. His notable contributions at Warner Bros. and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer include creating iconic characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Droopy. Avery's distinctive style was characterized by sarcastic, surrealist humor and rapid pacing, setting his work apart from contemporaries. Despite losing sight in one eye due to an accident at the Lantz studio, Avery's innovative approach left a lasting mark on animation.

Tex Avery was born in Taylor, Texas, to Mary Augusta "Jessie" (née Bean) and George Walton Avery. His father hailed from Alabama and his mother from Chickasaw County, Mississippi. Avery graduated from North Dallas High School in 1926, where the phrase "What's up, doc?" later became famous through Bugs Bunny.