In the late ’80s, Family Matters became a household name. It was a sitcom that brought laughter, lessons, and unforgettable characters to millions. Airing from 1989 to 1998, the show was more than just a comedy; it became a part of the culture. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the beloved Family Matters cast: where they were then and what they’re up to now. Spoiler alert: some of the transformations are jaw-dropping!
The Cast of Family Matters: Who Were They Back in 1989?
Before we dive into the present, let’s revisit who the main players were in Family Matters back in the day.
Steve Urkel: The Nerd Who Stole Our Hearts
At the heart of Family Matters was Steve Urkel, played by the iconic Jaleel White. Known for his high-pitched voice, suspenders, and infamous catchphrase, “Did I do that?”, Urkel quickly became the face of the show.
- Then (1989): A geeky next-door neighbor who was constantly causing chaos in the Winslow household.
- Now (2025): Jaleel White has since turned into a well-rounded actor, voice artist, and producer. He’s also active on social media, connecting with fans and showcasing his multi-faceted talents.
Carl Winslow: The Strong, Loving Father
Reginald VelJohnson portrayed Carl Winslow, the stoic yet lovable police officer and father. His character was the backbone of the show, providing guidance, love, and a lot of dad jokes.
- Then (1989): Carl was the classic father figure who always knew what to say (even if he didn’t always say it right).
- Now (2025): Reginald VelJohnson is still active in Hollywood, having appeared in several TV shows and movies. He continues to be a well-respected figure in the industry.
Harriette Winslow: The Heart of the Family
Jo Marie Payton played Harriette Winslow, the quick-witted and caring matriarch of the Winslow family. Her strength, humor, and deep love for her family made her a fan favorite.
- Then (1989): Harriette was often the voice of reason in the family, balancing Carl’s gruff exterior with her nurturing spirit.
- Now (2025): Jo Marie Payton has remained a staple in the entertainment industry, with appearances in various TV shows and films. She’s also a motivational speaker and advocate for women’s rights.
Laura Winslow: The Teenage Dream
Kellie Shanygne Williams played Laura Winslow, the smart and confident teenage daughter of Carl and Harriette. Throughout the show, we saw Laura grow from a shy girl to a self-assured young woman.
- Then (1989): Laura was the classic teen – witty, often annoyed by Urkel’s advances but still grounded in family values.
- Now (2025): Kellie Shanygne Williams has stayed relatively low-key in the entertainment world but has remained active with various projects, including directing and producing. She’s also involved in community work.
The Rest of the Cast: The Friends and Extended Family
Eddie Winslow: The Cool Kid Who Made Us Laugh
Darius McCrary played Eddie Winslow, the Winslow family’s eldest son. Eddie was a typical teenager, more concerned about his friends and social life than anything else.
- Then (1989): Eddie was the cool, sometimes naive, older brother who often found himself in sticky situations.
- Now (2025): Darius McCrary has transitioned to a successful career in both acting and music. He’s had roles in numerous TV shows and movies, and he also stays connected with his fans via social media.
Waldo Faldo: The Lovable Goofball
Waldo, played by Shawn Harrison, was Eddie’s best friend who often played the goofy, lovable character in many episodes.
- Then (1989): Waldo was the comic relief, often acting clueless but always with the best intentions.
- Now (2025): Shawn Harrison continues to act, though his roles have been more diverse in recent years. He’s also explored voice acting.
The Winslow Kids: A Growing Family
Aside from the main characters, there were several memorable kids and relatives who played pivotal roles in the family dynamic.
- Then (1989): Judy Winslow (played by Jaimee Foxworth) started off as the younger sibling but disappeared later in the series.
- Now (2025): Judy’s absence from the later seasons is still a mystery, but Jaimee Foxworth has since found success in acting and is actively engaged in media and advocacy.
Behind the Scenes: What Made Family Matters So Special?
There was something truly magical about Family Matters. Sure, it had the classic sitcom setup: a family, a quirky neighbor, and plenty of laughs. But what set it apart was its warmth, heart, and the way it tackled real-life issues like race, family, and growing up.
The Chemistry Between the Cast
The cast of Family Matters had a unique chemistry that made it work. They weren’t just co-stars; they were a family. That bond translated into authentic, heartfelt performances that still resonate with fans today.
The Importance of Steve Urkel’s Popularity
Steve Urkel wasn’t just a character; he was a cultural phenomenon. His popularity skyrocketed, and for a while, Family Matters was almost synonymous with Urkel. This led to many hilarious moments, but it also highlighted how versatile the show was in handling both physical comedy and more serious topics.
The Show’s Legacy
Over the years, Family Matters has remained a cherished show for many. It’s still beloved by fans who grew up with it, and its influence can still be seen in many modern sitcoms. Whether it’s the themes of family unity, the enduring popularity of Urkel, or the memorable quotes, Family Matters continues to leave an imprint on pop culture.
The Cast of Family Matters Today: Life After the Show
Let’s check in with what the cast has been up to since the final episode of Family Matters aired.
Jaleel White: More Than Just Steve Urkel
Jaleel White may always be remembered as Steve Urkel, but he has made a name for himself in other areas of entertainment. From voice acting to hosting, White continues to shine in the spotlight.
- Voice Acting: Jaleel White has voiced characters in shows like Family Guy and Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated.
- Producing: White has worked as a producer on several projects and has even launched his own production company.
- Personal Life: White stays connected with his fans through social media and often reflects on his time as Urkel with a sense of humor and gratitude.
Reginald VelJohnson: The Dad Who Never Left Our Hearts
Reginald VelJohnson’s role as Carl Winslow made him a favorite on TV screens. Though he’s kept a relatively low profile in recent years, his legacy continues.
- Recent Roles: VelJohnson has appeared in TV shows like Die Hard and Perfect Harmony.
- Personal Life: He remains an advocate for community and youth programs, and he’s also active in various charitable organizations.
Jo Marie Payton: Staying Busy and Spreading Positivity
Jo Marie Payton, who played the beloved Harriette Winslow, is still active in both acting and motivational speaking.
- Recent Projects: Payton continues to appear in films and TV shows.
- Advocacy: She’s passionate about women’s rights and regularly participates in community outreach programs.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Will Never Fade
The cast of Family Matters was more than just a group of actors—they were a family that captured the hearts of millions. While time has passed and many of the actors have moved on to new ventures, their contributions to TV history remain unforgettable. The warmth, humor, and heart of Family Matters live on, and no matter where the cast is today, one thing is for sure: they’ll always be a part of the memories that shaped us.
5 Unique FAQs After The Conclusion:
1. What happened to Judy Winslow from Family Matters? Judy Winslow, played by Jaimee Foxworth, was written out of the show after season 4. While her disappearance remains unexplained on-screen, Foxworth continued to act before stepping away from the industry.
2. Did Steve Urkel ever get his own show? Yes, Jaleel White’s character, Steve Urkel, got his own spin-off series, Urkel & Family, in the ’90s, though it wasn’t as successful as Family Matters.
3. Why did Family Matters end in 1998? Family Matters ended after nine seasons due to declining ratings and a shift in audience preferences. Despite this, the show left a lasting impact on sitcom history.
4. Are any of the Family Matters cast members still acting? Yes, many of the cast members, including Jaleel White, Reginald VelJohnson, and Jo Marie Payton, continue to act in TV shows, movies, and voice work.
5. Is there a Family Matters reboot? As of now, there hasn’t been an official reboot of Family Matters, but the show remains a cultural touchstone for fans, with occasional reunions and specials.
