The Enduring Legacy of Laura Winslow
If you were glued to your TV in the ’90s, then you definitely remember Family Matters. And more importantly, you remember Laura Winslow — the strong, smart, no-nonsense daughter of the Winslow family. Played by the brilliant Kellie Shanygne Williams, Laura was the girl-next-door who was constantly dodging the nerdy, lovesick advances of Steve Urkel.
But after the final episode aired in 1998, Kellie seemed to vanish from Hollywood’s spotlight. So where did she go? What is she doing now? Buckle up — this isn’t just a story about a child star. It’s a story about reinvention, family, and finding purpose beyond the fame.
Who Is Kellie Shanygne Williams?
Before she became the face of teenage sass and smarts on Family Matters, Kellie Shanygne Williams was born in Washington, D.C. on March 22, 1976. With a love for theater and performance from an early age, she started acting at age four in community theater. Her natural charisma quickly drew attention, and by age 13, she landed the role of a lifetime.
Laura Winslow: A 90s Icon
In Family Matters, Laura was more than just a supporting character. She was the center of Urkel’s obsession, sure — but she was also a representation of strength, intelligence, and ambition. She wasn’t just the “pretty girl” — she had goals, values, and a sharp tongue. Kellie gave Laura depth.
For nearly a decade, she played Laura Winslow with poise and heart, becoming one of the most recognizable young Black actresses on TV.
Life After Family Matters: The Hollywood Hiatus
After Family Matters ended, Kellie didn’t dive straight into other major Hollywood roles like some of her co-stars. Instead, she took a step back — and not because the opportunities weren’t there, but because she chose a different path.
She went to UCLA and focused on education, family, and personal growth. For someone who grew up on a studio set, returning to a more grounded life was the kind of “glow-down” that actually led to a glow-up.
Why She Stepped Away From Fame
Many wonder why Kellie didn’t pursue a bigger Hollywood career. The truth? She wanted something more real. Fame can be thrilling, but it’s not always fulfilling. Kellie chose family, stability, and service — things the entertainment world doesn’t always prioritize.
In interviews, she’s mentioned the value of living a life that matters beyond the screen. That includes being present for her kids, her community, and herself.
Kellie’s Return to TV — In a New Way
Though she stepped back from the spotlight, Kellie didn’t disappear entirely. In 2009, she reunited with her Family Matters co-star Darius McCrary (aka Eddie Winslow) for the sitcom Eve, and later starred with him in Christmas in Carolina (2020), a light-hearted holiday movie that reminded fans why they loved the Winslow siblings so much.
This was her gentle toe-dip back into the entertainment world — a reminder that her talent didn’t go anywhere.
Becoming a Mom and Mentor
Kellie is now a proud mother and wife. She married Hannibal Jackson in 2009, and the couple shares two children. Rather than raising them on sets or red carpets, she’s raised them with values, boundaries, and lots of love.
She also created the Kellie Williams Program, a youth initiative designed to bring television production and media skills to Washington, D.C. teenagers. She gives kids the opportunity to learn storytelling and production — proving she’s not just giving back, she’s building up.
Why Fans Still Love Laura Winslow (And Kellie Too)
There’s something about Kellie’s portrayal of Laura that stuck with people. She was smart but not a know-it-all. Beautiful, but not in a cookie-cutter way. Kind, but could stand her ground. In many ways, she was the prototype for strong Black female leads in teen and family shows.
And that grace has followed her off-screen. Fans love her not just because of what she was, but who she became.
Kellie and the Cast: Family Still Matters
The Family Matters cast has reunited several times in recent years — most notably in 2017 for Entertainment Weekly’s reunion photo shoot. The cast, including Jaleel White, Reginald VelJohnson, and Jo Marie Payton, clearly still share a bond.
Kellie has remained close to many of her co-stars, especially Darius McCrary. Their on-screen chemistry was built on real-life friendship that’s still going strong today.
Kellie’s Personal Philosophy: Keep It Grounded
One thing that stands out when you hear Kellie speak today? She’s real. She talks about fame like someone who’s been through it and came out wiser. She doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties of growing up in the spotlight, but she also doesn’t dwell on it. She’s all about growth, peace, and authenticity.
Where Is Kellie Shanygne Williams Now?
As of now, Kellie Shanygne Williams is living a life many former child stars dream of — quiet, fulfilling, and purpose-driven. She may not be on your screen every week, but she’s showing up in bigger ways: as a mom, a mentor, and a woman who’s found peace in life beyond Hollywood.
Will She Return to Acting Full-Time?
She hasn’t ruled it out. Kellie has said she’s open to the right projects, especially ones that feel meaningful or allow her to work with old friends. And with all the buzz around reboots and nostalgia TV, don’t be surprised if Laura Winslow walks back into your living room someday.
The Legacy of Kellie Shanygne Williams
Kellie isn’t just “that girl from Family Matters.” She’s an example of what it means to evolve. To choose growth over attention. To build something meaningful out of a childhood most people only dream of.
And honestly? That makes her even more inspiring today than she was back then.
Conclusion: From Laura Winslow to Lifelong Role Model
Kellie Shanygne Williams could’ve chased fame forever. Instead, she chose authenticity. She gave us a beloved character who defined a decade — and then quietly created a life that defines success in a whole new way. While many fans still want a Family Matters reboot, Kellie is already living the best sequel: real life, with real love, and real purpose.
FAQs
1. What is Kellie Shanygne Williams doing now?
She’s focused on family, mentoring youth, and occasionally acting. She also runs a program that teaches media production to teens.
2. Did Kellie Shanygne Williams continue acting after Family Matters?
Yes, but sporadically. She appeared in Christmas in Carolina and had some guest appearances on other shows.
3. Is Kellie married?
Yes! She married Hannibal Jackson in 2009, and they have two children together.
4. Does she still talk to her Family Matters co-stars?
Absolutely. She has maintained close friendships with several cast members, especially Darius McCrary.
5. Will there be a Family Matters reboot with Kellie in it?
There’s no official reboot yet, but Kellie has expressed interest in participating if it happens.
