Key Revelations From Jaleel White’s Memoir About ‘Family Matters’

Jaleel White opens up in his latest memoir, Growing Up Urkel, revealing surprising details from his time on the beloved sitcom Family Matters. The show, which aired from 1989 to 1998, became a cultural phenomenon, centered around the Winslows, a typical middle-class Black family in Chicago, and introduced fans to the quirky neighbor, Steve Urkel, played by White.

White originally joined the cast later in the first season, intending to appear in just one episode. However, his performance resonated with audiences, leading to his character becoming a central figure in the series. Reflecting on his unexpected rise to fame, White recalls, “My performance was so well received that they began writing me into the next episode.” This ultimately solidified his status as a main character alongside stars like Reginald VelJohnson and Jo Marie Payton.

Despite the fame and success that came with Family Matters, White’s memoir unveils the challenges he faced as a child actor. While he shared many positive experiences, he emphasized the importance of not letting drama overshadow his narrative. “I never felt any need for any get back at my costars,” he said. “I want my daughter to be proud of what I put out there.”

His relationships with his former cast members vary; some remain close friends, while others are more distant. Reflecting on the divide between adult and child actors during production, White noted, “There was a clear division — even when we were working — there were the adults and there were the kids.” As his star power grew, he had to navigate the complexities of that dynamic.

Throughout the book, White illustrates the physical toll of inhabiting the character of Steve Urkel for nine seasons. He frequently faced exhaustion and discomfort from the character’s demanding physical comedy, often dealing with injuries as a result. He expressed relief when network executives made adjustments to his character’s attire to allow him some comfort.

White also revisited various pivotal moments from the show, including unexpected plot twists and personal experiences behind the scenes. He shared insight into the deeper reality of the characters’ relationships, such as the tension with actress Jaimee Foxworth, whose character was sidelined after a few seasons. “If Jaime were as funny in the role of Judy Winslow as she was in our studio classroom, she would have never left the show,” he asserted, pointing out that the challenges she faced were due in part to factors beyond her control.

The emotional legacy of his late co-star Michelle Thomas, who portrayed Urkel’s love interest, is also a significant part of White’s narrative. Her battle with cancer cut her life short at just 30, and her impact on the show and its cast still resonates with White.

Additionally, White candidly recounts a previously tense relationship with Kellie Williams, who played Laura, his character’s romantic interest. Their falling out during filming was profound enough that they had to reconcile off-camera. “Even the time we were not getting along, I was showing some adolescent immaturity,” he reflected on their shared experiences.

As for the future, White hints at a potential Family Matters reboot, which he turned down in 2016 due to concerns over its portrayal of the characters. He expressed his desire for an authentic representation of the time that had passed since the original series. “If the opportunity presents itself, I’d never turn my back on a genuine chance,” he noted.

In sum, Growing Up Urkel serves not just as a memoir of a beloved sitcom, but as a reflection on the complexities of childhood fame, personal growth, and the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences in the world of television.