If you grew up in the late ’80s or early ’90s, Family Matters probably had a spot in your weekly TV lineup. Whether you tuned in for the Winslows’ family drama or just to catch Steve Urkel’s latest invention-gone-wrong, the show became a cultural cornerstone. But now, decades later, you might be wondering — where did the cast of Family Matters end up?
Well, grab your favorite snack and settle in — because we’re diving deep into the current lives of the beloved cast that made Family Matters a household name.
A Quick Recap: What Was Family Matters All About?
Before we fast-forward to today, let’s rewind for a moment.
Family Matters aired from 1989 to 1998, running for nine seasons and nearly 215 episodes. It centered around the Winslow family, a middle-class African American family living in Chicago, and the quirky, brilliant next-door neighbor — Steve Urkel.
The show wasn’t just funny — it tackled real issues like racial profiling, gun violence, and peer pressure, while still managing to deliver laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt lessons.
Jaleel White (Steve Urkel): The Geek Who Took Over the Show
Let’s start with the breakout star: Jaleel White, aka Steven Quincy Urkel.
Originally intended as a one-off character, Urkel’s nerdy charm, suspenders, and iconic catchphrase — “Did I do that?” — made him a fan favorite. So much so, he became the show’s centerpiece.
Where Is He Now?
After Family Matters, Jaleel struggled to shake off the Urkel image — something he’s candidly spoken about. But he found new life in voice acting, playing Sonic the Hedgehog in animated series during the ’90s. He also popped up in shows like Psych, Drunk History, and Dancing with the Stars.
In recent years, he launched his own cannabis brand (Purple Urkle, naturally) and even returned to his roots with appearances in sitcoms and nostalgic reunions.
Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow): The Dad We All Wanted
Reginald VelJohnson played Carl Winslow, the stern-but-loving father and Chicago police officer. He was the rock of the family and often the voice of reason.
Where Is He Now?
After Family Matters, VelJohnson continued acting steadily. You might’ve spotted him in Die Hard, CSI, Bones, or Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He’s carved out a solid niche as “America’s favorite cop,” and even returned to his sitcom roots with roles in Christmas movies and family comedies.
Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Winslow): The Matriarch with Sass
Jo Marie Payton brought warmth, wit, and wisdom to Harriette Winslow. She was the no-nonsense mother with a heart of gold.
Where Is She Now?
Jo Marie left the show before its final season due to creative differences. But she never left Hollywood. She lent her voice to Suga Mama on The Proud Family, a role she recently reprised in The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder. She’s also been active in theater and continues to advocate for more inclusive storytelling.
Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow): Urkel’s Longtime Crush
Kellie Shanygne Williams played Laura Winslow, the intelligent, beautiful daughter who had to endure Steve Urkel’s endless affection (and inventions).
Where Is She Now?
After Family Matters, Kellie stepped away from the spotlight for a while to focus on her family. She’s since become active in community work, especially helping kids find pathways into the arts. In 2022, she reunited with Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow) for a few nostalgic appearances and events.
Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow): The Cool Big Brother
Darius McCrary gave us Eddie Winslow, the mischievous but lovable older brother who went from teenage goofball to responsible young adult.
Where Is He Now?
Darius kept acting post-Family Matters, appearing in The Young and the Restless, Freedom, and even voicing Jazz in Transformers (2007). Off-screen, he’s been involved in music and advocacy work — though his personal life has included some controversy and legal battles.
Bryton McClure (Richie Crawford): The Adorable Kid
Young Bryton McClure played Richie Crawford, Rachel’s adorable son and the Winslows’ favorite little man.
Where Is He Now?
You probably know him now as Bryton James, thanks to his long-running role on The Young and the Restless. He’s won a Daytime Emmy and has built an impressive soap opera résumé. Not too shabby for a former child star!
Telma Hopkins (Rachel Crawford): The Cool Aunt
Telma Hopkins was Rachel Crawford, Harriette’s sister and single mom to Richie. She brought flair and humor to every scene.
Where Is She Now?
Telma never stopped acting. She starred in Half & Half, Are We There Yet?, and recently reunited with Jaleel White for the CBS sitcom Me, Myself & I. She’s also a vocal advocate for foster care and children’s rights.
Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo): The Lovable Doofus
Who could forget Waldo Geraldo Faldo? Played by Shawn Harrison, Waldo started off as Eddie’s dim-witted friend, but quickly became a fan favorite for his heart and humor.
Where Is He Now?
After the show ended, Shawn took on smaller acting roles and focused more on voiceover work. He keeps a low profile but pops up occasionally at fan conventions and cast reunions.
Jaimee Foxworth (Judy Winslow): The Forgotten Sister
Ah, Judy Winslow — the youngest Winslow daughter who vanished without explanation after Season 4. Played by Jaimee Foxworth, her disappearance became one of sitcom history’s biggest mysteries.
Where Is She Now?
Jaimee faced tough times after leaving the show, including struggles with addiction and entering the adult film industry. In recent years, however, she’s turned her life around and become a mother. She’s shared her story openly, advocating for mental health and child star protections.
Cherie Johnson (Maxine Johnson): Laura’s Best Friend
Cherie Johnson, known as Maxine, Laura’s loyal BFF, always brought energy and sass to every scene.
Where Is She Now?
Cherie went on to become a producer and writer. She’s written books, hosted podcasts, and stayed active in Hollywood behind the scenes. She’s also a strong voice for body positivity and Black entrepreneurship.
The Legacy of Family Matters: More Than Just a Sitcom
It wasn’t just a show — it was a movement. Family Matters gave Black families a strong, relatable presence on mainstream television. It made nerd culture cool. And it gave us moments we still quote today.
The cast, despite going in different directions, still holds a special place in pop culture. And thanks to reruns and streaming, a whole new generation is falling in love with Urkel and the Winslows all over again.
Family Matters Reunions: Will There Be a Revival?
There have been whispers and hopeful signs. Several cast members have said they’d love a reboot or movie. While nothing official has dropped yet, fans remain hopeful that Family Matters might return — even if just for one last dance to “As Days Go By.”
Why We Still Care: Nostalgia Never Dies
Let’s face it — the ’90s were a golden era of TV. And Family Matters holds up surprisingly well. The jokes still land. The lessons still matter. And Steve Urkel? Still iconic.
Conclusion
The cast of Family Matters may have grown up, moved on, and found new passions, but their place in our hearts is permanent. From Jaleel White’s unforgettable Urkel to Reginald VelJohnson’s loving authority figure, every character brought something special to the screen.
Their journeys after the show remind us that fame is fleeting, but talent and resilience last a lifetime. Whether they’re acting, writing, advocating, or just enjoying life out of the spotlight — they’re all still part of our TV family.
