Who does Michael Ealy play on Bel-Air?

Spoilers ahead of Bel-Air episode 5

Bel-Air episode 5, “PA to LA,” brought viewers further into the art world that Aunt Viv had been a part of before stepping back from her career as an artist to focus on her family.

For the past couple of episodes, Viv’s friend Joan has been encouraging her to pick up her paintbrush and reclaim the limelight she had walked away from. “PA to LA” put her one step closer to the potential of making a name for herself again.

Last episode in “Canvass,” Joan said she’d set up a meeting with a gallery owner whose rising star could help Viv re-enter the art world. We met him in episode 5, and he’s played by none other than Michael Ealy!

Here’s what more we know.

What character does Michael Ealy play in Bel-Air?

Ealy plays Reed Broderick. His character is in town setting up an annex for his New York-based gallery that’s the buzz of his field. Reed’s current focus is rediscovering artists, making him just the man that Viv needs. However, it’s clear when the two meet-up that Reed isn’t only interested in Viv’s paintings.

There’s an undercurrent of unresolved tension between the two that could become a problem in the future if Reed continues to stick around. Viv’s work deserves to be on display and admired. Her return to the center of the art world may become an issue with Phil’s campaign, but she has put everyone’s needs in front of her own for far too long.

Reed’s appearance on the scene is what Viv needs career wise but given his long looks at her and the base-level seductive tone he’s been using with her, he’s absolutely no good for her marriage.

Viv kept things professional in “PA to LA” but just because she’s respecting her marriage doesn’t mean Reed won’t try to see how far he can push his luck with her especially when it’s not abundantly clear that the attraction between them only goes one way.

Stay tuned to Hidden Remote for more Bel-Air news and coverage.