Family Matters first hit our screens back in 1989, becoming one of the most beloved family sitcoms of all time. Over nine seasons and nearly 200 episodes, the Winslow family, with their hilarious and heartwarming moments, captured the hearts of viewers across the globe. But what has happened to the cast after nearly 37 years? Are they truly done with Family Matters, or is a new season on the horizon?
In this article, we’ll dive into what the Family Matters cast is doing today, how their careers have evolved, and the potential for a revival of the iconic show.
The Rise of Family Matters: A Look Back at the Show’s Glory Days
Before we get into what the cast has been up to, let’s take a quick stroll down memory lane. Family Matters premiered in 1989 and quickly became a staple of American television. The sitcom focused on the Winslow family, led by Carl Winslow (played by Reginald VelJohnson), a tough but loving Chicago cop, and his wife, Harriette (Jo Marie Payton). But it was Steve Urkel, the nerdy, loveable neighbor, played by Jaleel White, who stole the spotlight and turned the show into a cultural phenomenon.
With its relatable family dynamics and memorable catchphrases, Family Matters ran for nine seasons, making it one of the longest-running sitcoms of its time. But how did the cast evolve over nearly three and a half decades, and what are they doing now?
Jaleel White: From Steve Urkel to A Versatile Actor
Jaleel White will forever be remembered for his portrayal of Steve Urkel. His quirky, awkward, yet endearing character became the heart and soul of Family Matters, and his catchphrase “Did I do that?” still resonates with fans today. But what has White been up to since hanging up his suspenders?
After the show ended in 1998, Jaleel White’s career took various turns. He appeared in several TV shows, including The New Dietrich, Grown Ups, and voice acting roles in animated series like Family Guy and Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated. He also made notable guest appearances on Pyramid and Dancing with the Stars, displaying his talents beyond comedy. Recently, he’s explored opportunities in podcasting and producing, keeping his connection to the entertainment world strong.
So, is Jaleel White interested in reviving Steve Urkel? He’s spoken openly about the difficulties of recreating the magic of his Family Matters days, stating that nostalgia alone wouldn’t carry a reboot. Instead, he’s more interested in exploring new and fresh projects that reflect his growth as an actor.
Reginald VelJohnson: The Heartbeat of Family Matters as Carl Winslow
Reginald VelJohnson, who played the steadfast and loving father Carl Winslow, was another standout of Family Matters. With his calm demeanor and fatherly wisdom, VelJohnson became the perfect foil to Steve Urkel’s chaotic energy.
After Family Matters, VelJohnson continued to land acting roles, appearing in series like Die Hard, The Disney Channel’s Dog with a Blog, and The Hughleys. He also reprised his role as Carl Winslow in Die Hard 2 and other projects, reminding fans of his deep connection to the character.
Despite his busy acting career, VelJohnson has hinted that he’s not entirely opposed to a Family Matters reboot, but like his co-stars, he believes the show’s heart and spirit would need to evolve to fit modern sensibilities. While there hasn’t been a full-on revival, he remains active in the industry, balancing acting and charitable work.
Jo Marie Payton: Harriette Winslow and Her Post-Family Matters Journey
Jo Marie Payton, who portrayed Harriette Winslow, Carl’s supportive wife, was another essential part of the Family Matters cast. Harriette’s wisdom, humor, and heart made her a beloved figure, and Payton continued to make waves after the show ended.
After Family Matters, Payton appeared in a variety of TV shows and films, including The Parkers, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and The Spirit of Christmas. She also took her talents to the stage, performing in community and regional theater productions. Most recently, she appeared on the comedy series The Neighborhood, solidifying her place as a versatile actress.
Much like her co-stars, Payton has expressed interest in reuniting with the Family Matters cast, but she has acknowledged that any future revival would need to bring something new to the table. She remains an advocate for family-centered TV shows and keeps in touch with fans through social media.
Kellie Shanygne Williams: Laura Winslow’s Life After Family Matters
Kellie Shanygne Williams, who played Laura Winslow, Steve Urkel’s love interest, remains a fan favorite. The chemistry between her and Urkel kept audiences invested in the show for years. After Family Matters ended, Williams made appearances in films, including The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love and various TV shows.
More recently, Williams has focused on charity work, founding the non-profit organization Kellie’s Kids, which provides mentorship for underprivileged youth. She’s also a mom and stays active in the entertainment industry with occasional appearances. While a revival of Family Matters might not be in the cards, Williams remains a fan favorite, still fondly remembered for her role as Laura.
The Rest of the Winslow Family: Where Are They Now?
The Family Matters cast wasn’t just about Urkel and the Winslow parents; the rest of the Winslow children had their moments to shine.
- Darius McCrary, who played Eddie Winslow, went on to pursue a music career and appeared in several TV shows and films. He’s stayed busy in the entertainment industry, though he hasn’t revisited the world of Family Matters in recent years.
- Telma Hopkins, who played Aunt Rachel, continued to act and produce in Hollywood after her time on the show. She made appearances in sitcoms and music videos and remains a respected industry veteran.
Could a Family Matters Revival Be in the Works?
After nearly 37 years, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Family Matters could return for a new season or a reboot. While several cast members have expressed interest in working together again, a true revival would likely require more than just nostalgia.
In today’s entertainment climate, reboots are often met with mixed reactions, with many fans preferring original content over rehashing old favorites. However, there are still opportunities for Family Matters to return in some form—whether through a limited series, a reunion special, or a modernized take on the family sitcom.
Jaleel White has shared that he’s not keen on simply “revisiting” Steve Urkel, as that character has already lived his full arc. However, he’s open to exploring new ways to celebrate Family Matters and its legacy. A reunion or continuation might just be the best way to bring the show back while honoring what made it so special in the first place.
What Would a Family Matters Revival Look Like?
If Family Matters were to return, what would it look like? Many fans imagine a reunion where the original cast members return as their characters, only older and wiser. The dynamics of the Winslow family could reflect modern-day issues—family diversity, changing societal norms, and new forms of comedy.
Another idea is a reboot that reintroduces the beloved characters to a new generation while keeping the core values intact. Family sitcoms have evolved, so a Family Matters revival could explore new storytelling techniques while still offering heartwarming and relatable moments.
The Legacy of Family Matters: Why It Still Matters
Even without a revival, Family Matters has left a lasting legacy in pop culture. It helped define the 90s sitcom era, focusing on family values, humor, and the importance of community. The iconic characters, especially Steve Urkel, remain etched in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Through syndication, streaming platforms, and fan conventions, Family Matters continues to entertain and inspire. Whether or not a revival is in the cards, the impact of the show on both viewers and the cast is undeniable.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On
While a Family Matters reboot may not be on the immediate horizon, the legacy of the show and its iconic characters continues to thrive. The cast has each pursued their own paths, finding success in various aspects of entertainment and life. Whether a revival happens or not, Family Matters will always be remembered for its heart, humor, and unforgettable characters.
FAQs
1. Is Family Matters coming back for a reboot?
While there is no official confirmation of a reboot, some cast members have expressed interest in reuniting for a reunion special or a limited series.
2. What happened to Jaleel White after Family Matters?
Jaleel White continued acting in various TV shows, films, and voice-over roles. He has also ventured into producing and podcasting.
3. Where is Reginald VelJohnson now?
Reginald VelJohnson remains active in the entertainment industry, appearing in TV shows and films. He has expressed interest in returning to Family Matters in some capacity.
4. Did Kellie Shanygne Williams continue acting?
Kellie Shanygne Williams continued to act in films and TV shows and has focused on charity work with her non-profit organization, Kellie’s Kids.
5. Would a Family Matters reboot work in today’s TV landscape?
A reboot could be successful if it evolves with modern-day issues and storytelling techniques while still honoring the core values and humor of the original show.
