‘Family Matters’ Cast: Where Are They Now? – A 2025 Update
It’s been over three decades since Family Matters first graced our TV screens with its wholesome humor, family values, and—of course—the unforgettable Steve Urkel. The show ran from 1989 to 1998, giving us nine seasons of laughter and heartfelt moments.
But here we are in 2025, and the big question still lingers: Where is the cast of Family Matters today? From thriving Hollywood careers to quiet retirements, here’s a deep dive into what happened to your favorite characters and the stars behind them.
Jaleel White (Steve Urkel)
From Nerd Icon to Veteran Actor
Jaleel White became a household name as Steve Urkel, the lovable, clumsy genius with the snort-laugh and a heart of gold. He stole every scene and became Family Matters’ breakout star.
Where Is He in 2025?
Today, Jaleel is still active in Hollywood. In recent years, he’s appeared in guest roles on hit shows, worked as a voice actor, and even launched his cannabis brand ItsPurpl. He voiced Sonic the Hedgehog in the ’90s and returned to the role briefly in a nostalgia-driven animated short in 2022.
He’s also producing content, diving into podcasting, and staying visible at fan conventions. Jaleel has managed to evolve past Urkel while still honoring the role that made him famous.
Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow)
America’s Favorite TV Dad
As Chicago cop Carl Winslow, Reginald VelJohnson brought both tough love and warm-hearted wisdom. He was the solid center of the show.
Still Acting Strong
VelJohnson never stopped working. You’ve seen him in roles across TV and film, including Brooklyn Nine-Nine, NCIS, and indie films. As of 2025, he’s semi-retired but still makes appearances at conventions and occasionally pops up in guest roles. Fans continue to adore him.
Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Winslow)
The Matriarch of the Winslow Family
Jo Marie Payton originated the role of Harriette Winslow on Perfect Strangers before transitioning to Family Matters. She stayed until near the end of the show before stepping away in Season 9.
Still Going Strong in Voice and Screen Roles
Jo Marie has enjoyed a vibrant post-Family Matters career. She’s voiced Suga Mama in The Proud Family reboot and made recurring appearances in family-themed TV series. In 2025, she’s balancing her acting work with community and charity involvement, often using her voice to support educational causes.
Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow)
The Original Girl Next Door
Kellie played Laura Winslow, the object of Urkel’s affection and a grounded voice in the chaos of the show.
Life Off-Screen
Kellie stepped back from Hollywood in the early 2000s to focus on her family and community. She co-founded the Kellie Williams Program to help youth develop acting and media skills. Though not acting much in 2025, she occasionally reunites with former cast members for nostalgic TV specials and interviews.
Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow)
From Teen Heartthrob to Music and Film
Eddie was the cool older brother with a rebellious streak, and Darius played him perfectly. After Family Matters, he stayed in the entertainment industry.
A Creative Journey with Ups and Downs
McCrary has acted in various films and TV shows, including The Young and the Restless and Compton’s Finest. He’s also a musician and continues recording R&B music. As of 2025, Darius is active in indie film production and occasionally tours with live shows.
Bryton James (Richie Crawford)
The Kid Who Grew Up Fast
Bryton James joined the cast as Richie, Rachel’s young son. He started young and transitioned into a successful adult acting career.
A Daytime TV Powerhouse
In 2025, Bryton is best known for his long-running role as Devon Hamilton on The Young and the Restless, a part he’s played since 2004. He’s won multiple awards and continues to work in voice acting and daytime drama.
Telma Hopkins (Rachel Crawford)
The Funny Aunt with Big Dreams
Rachel was Harriette’s witty sister, who often added comic relief and entrepreneurial energy.
A Legacy of TV Excellence
Telma never left showbiz. She starred in Half & Half, Are We There Yet?, and more recently, Family Reunion on Netflix. In 2025, she’s still acting, mentoring younger performers, and serving on various entertainment boards.
Shawn Harrison (Waldo Geraldo Faldo)
The Lovable Doofus
Waldo was Eddie’s best friend and perhaps the most unintentionally hilarious character on the show.
Where’s Waldo Now?
Shawn took a lower profile after Family Matters ended. He’s done occasional voice work and appeared in commercials. Though not a frequent face on screen in 2025, he’s active on social media and occasionally reunites with castmates for retrospectives.
Jaimee Foxworth (Judy Winslow)
The Forgotten Winslow
Judy, the youngest Winslow daughter, mysteriously vanished from the show after season 4—with no explanation. Jaimee Foxworth, who played her, had a difficult post-Family Matters journey.
A Journey of Redemption
Jaimee dealt with personal struggles, including addiction and adult entertainment work, but has turned her life around. As of 2025, she’s a proud mom, vocal about mental health awareness, and occasionally does interviews discussing her life and lessons learned.
Orlando Brown (3J)
The Late-Season Addition
Orlando joined the cast in the final seasons as 3J, a young boy taken in by the Winslows.
A Tumultuous Road
Orlando Brown has had a rocky journey through fame, including legal and personal issues. In 2025, he’s reportedly focusing on recovery and faith, occasionally posting music and motivational videos online.
Other Notable Mentions
Michelle Thomas (Myra Monkhouse)
Michelle played Urkel’s girlfriend Myra and was a fan favorite. Sadly, she passed away from cancer in 1998 at just 30 years old. Her legacy continues, and the cast regularly honors her memory.
Cherie Johnson (Maxine Johnson)
Cherie, who played Laura’s best friend, went on to write books, host podcasts, and star in several indie projects. She remains active and creative in 2025.
How the Cast Feels About the Show Today
Many Family Matters cast members still speak fondly of the show. Whether it’s on podcasts, reunion interviews, or social media throwbacks, they’ve embraced their place in TV history.
In 2025, they’re seen not just as former sitcom stars, but as part of the cultural fabric of ’90s America.
Will There Be a Family Matters Reboot?
Rumors have swirled for years. While no official reboot is in the works as of 2025, cast members—including Jaleel White and Jo Marie Payton—have expressed openness to revisiting the show if the story’s right.
Imagine a grown-up Urkel with kids of his own. Wouldn’t we all tune in for that?
Legacy of Family Matters in 2025
Family Matters remains one of the longest-running Black-led sitcoms in TV history. Its influence is clear in shows like Black-ish, Abbott Elementary, and The Upshaws.
The show tackled real-life issues—race, parenting, bullying, identity—without losing its humor. And that’s why, even in 2025, it still matters.
Conclusion
The Family Matters cast may have taken different paths, but they all left an unforgettable mark on pop culture. Whether they stayed in the spotlight or stepped away, each actor contributed to a show that defined an era.
So the next time you hear “Did I do that?”—take a second to smile. That nerdy little line helped build something timeless.
