Reboots Everywhere… Except Here
In an era where nearly every classic TV show is being revived, from Fuller House to The Fresh Prince reboot (Bel-Air), it’s no surprise that fans have been asking: What about Family Matters?
It had the laughs. The legacy. And of course, it had Steve Urkel—played brilliantly by Jaleel White, whose quirky, suspenders-clad character stole the spotlight for nearly a decade.
So, why hasn’t Family Matters made a comeback?
As it turns out, Jaleel White had a chance to jump into a reboot. But he said no—and instead pitched something totally different: a fresh, origin-style take on Steve Urkel that sounds a lot like Young Sheldon. Let’s dig into why he passed on nostalgia and leaned into something deeper.
Why Fans Want a ‘Family Matters’ Reboot
The Show That Defined the ’90s Sitcom Era
Family Matters wasn’t just about laughs—it was about love, family, and awkward teenage moments. Premiering in 1989, the show gave us one of the most iconic TV nerds in history. By the time it ended in 1998, it had earned a permanent spot in pop culture.
Everyone’s Doing It
We’ve seen successful reboots of Roseanne, Saved by the Bell, Boy Meets World, and more. Naturally, the Family Matters fandom has been buzzing about a possible reunion or reboot.
The Urkel Factor
Let’s be honest: The show’s legacy is tied to Urkel. Any reboot without him would feel… off. And Jaleel White knows it.
Jaleel White’s Surprising Take: No to the Reboot
“It Would Just Be for the Money”
In several interviews, White has made it clear: He’s not interested in doing a reboot that just cashes in on nostalgia. He’s proud of what they accomplished with Family Matters, and he’s protective of its legacy.
He’s said bluntly, “If we were to come back just to wear the suspenders again, that’s not something I’m interested in.”
It’s About Storytelling, Not Just Costumes
White’s reasoning isn’t about ego—it’s about the story. He believes that for a revival to work, it needs to offer something new, not just rely on inside jokes and cameos. And that’s where his unique idea comes in.
The “Young Sheldon”-Style Idea That Never Happened
Inspired by the Success of Prequels
When Young Sheldon premiered as a prequel to The Big Bang Theory, it proved audiences were hungry to see the why behind the who. Jaleel White had a similar vision for Urkel.
“What Made Steve Urkel Who He Is?”
White’s idea wasn’t to reprise his role as Urkel, but to explore Steve’s backstory. Picture this: A young Steve Urkel, growing up in Chicago, navigating life as a socially awkward genius with strict parents and big dreams.
Instead of bringing back the old gang, this show would dive into how Urkel became Urkel—the heartbreaks, the obsessions (hello, early crush on Laura), and the scientific experiments gone wrong.
A Fresh Perspective on a Classic Character
White believed this approach would let fans rediscover Urkel through a completely different lens. Less slapstick, more heart. Still funny, but grounded in storytelling.
Why the Origin Story Never Took Off
Studios Weren’t Ready to Take the Leap
While White pitched the idea, it didn’t get greenlit. Why? Some say networks were hesitant to take a risk on a character people only associated with exaggerated comedy.
Nostalgia Still Sells Better Than Innovation
TV execs love a reboot because it’s safe. Known brand, familiar faces, easy marketing. A reimagined origin story? That takes a little more trust—and creativity.
Jaleel White’s Thoughts on Playing Urkel Again
“I Outgrew the Role”
White has been open about the fact that playing Urkel into adulthood would feel off. He was 12 when he auditioned, and nearly 22 when the show ended. The goofy, high-pitched persona doesn’t fit him anymore.
“I Don’t Want to Be a Walking Meme”
He’s also wary of being typecast forever. While Urkel brought him fame, it also boxed him in for years. White has worked hard to show range in other roles—and he’s not eager to undo that progress just to wear suspenders again.
What Jaleel White Is Doing Now
Podcasts, Films, and Guest Appearances
White’s stayed busy since Family Matters. He’s voiced Sonic the Hedgehog, appeared in comedies and dramas, and recently launched a podcast called Ever After, where he interviews former child stars about life after fame.
Entrepreneurship and Cannabis Brand
In 2021, he even launched a cannabis line called “Purple Urkle”—a nod to his past, but also a signal that he’s creating new lanes for himself outside acting.
The Future of ‘Family Matters’: Is It Over?
A Reboot Isn’t Off the Table… Entirely
Other cast members, like Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow), have said they’d be open to a revival. And there’s always a chance that a streaming service could come calling.
But It Won’t Be the Same Without Urkel
Let’s face it—without Steve, it’s not really Family Matters. And if Jaleel White isn’t onboard, it’s hard to imagine the magic being recaptured.
Could the Prequel Still Happen Someday?
The World Loves Origin Stories
With hits like Young Sheldon, Better Call Saul, and even Gotham, there’s clearly a hunger for “how it all began” tales. If the right team and vision came together, a Young Urkel show could totally work.
Streaming Could Be the Key
Netflix, Prime Video, and Peacock are always hunting for original spins on nostalgic IP. With enough fan buzz and a killer script, maybe White’s vision could still come to life.
Why Jaleel White’s Idea Deserves a Second Look
It Honors the Character’s Legacy
Instead of dragging a beloved character into awkward middle age, White’s idea respects what made Urkel special and dives deeper into the why.
It Could Introduce Urkel to a New Generation
A younger, modern-day Steve could speak to today’s socially awkward, tech-obsessed kids in a way the original show can’t. And older fans would appreciate the nods to the classic.
It’s Different—And That’s the Point
We don’t need another carbon-copy reboot. What we need are fresh takes that honor the past but don’t rely on it. White understood that. And honestly? That’s what makes him ahead of his time.
Conclusion: Not All Reboots Are Worth Doing
Jaleel White’s decision to pass on a Family Matters reboot wasn’t about bitterness—it was about vision. He didn’t want to phone it in for a paycheck. He wanted to expand on the story, not just repeat it.
His prequel idea, while never greenlit, was a thoughtful, creative twist that could’ve introduced Steve Urkel to a whole new audience. And who knows? Maybe it still can.
Because sometimes, the best way to honor the past… is to tell the story that came before it.
FAQs
1. Why did Jaleel White reject a Family Matters reboot?
He felt it would be purely nostalgic and lack a meaningful story. He didn’t want to wear the suspenders again just for the sake of fan service.
2. What was Jaleel White’s idea for a Steve Urkel origin story?
He pitched a Young Sheldon-style prequel that explored Urkel’s childhood, family dynamics, and early scientific mishaps in a more grounded, character-driven way.
