Family Matters Cast: Where They Are Now and Who Passed Away
The fan-favorite, ’90s sitcom Family Matters introduced the world to the suspender-sporting, nerdy neighbor Steve Urkel and the lovable Winslow clan. The series dominated ratings throughout the decade and ran for an impressive nine seasons, entertaining viewers from 1989 to 1998. With Reginald VelJohnson and Jo Marie Payton as parents Carl and Harriette Winslow, the couple and their kids live in Chicago and are constantly surrounded by their colorful family and friends.
Family Matters was one of the longest-running live-action sitcoms to feature a largely African American cast, and during its tenure attracted a passionate following, with Jaleel White skyrocketing in popularity for his comical portrayal of Urkel. It’s been 25 years since the series finale, so let’s take a look at what the cast has been up to since.
Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Otis Winslow)
Chicago police officer and Winslow family patriarch Carl is infamous for his short fuse when it comes to his annoying neighbor Urkel, but despite his often gruff nature, Carl would do anything for those he loved. Both Carl and his wife Harriette were first introduced as characters on Perfect Strangers before a new show was built around the two in 1989. Reginald VelJohnson was already experiencing popularity after appearing as Sergeant Al Powell in the first two Die Hard movies, and he portrayed family man Carl for all nine seasons.
Johnson continued to do a lot of guest appearances and voice work after Family Matters, nabbing roles in shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Will & Grace, Mike & Molly, and Mom. The actor has also provided his vocals in Family Guy, 3Belows: Tales of Arcadia, and Lazor Wulf, and most recently in the adult animated superhero series Invincible.
Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Baines Winslow)
The strong-willed and quick-witted Harriette is frequently the voice of reason in the Winslow household and takes immense pride in being both a devoted mother and hardworking woman, never shying away from expressing her opinions on her family’s antics. Jo Marie Payton previously had a recurring role as her elevator operator character in Perfect Strangers, and fans loved the actress so much that they created a new sitcom specifically for her.
Payton portrayed Harriette in all but eight episodes of the series, departing the comedy during its final season due to on-set tensions between her and Jaleel White and feeling like it had jumped the shark. Payton memorably voiced Suga Mama in the animated series The Proud Family, reprising the role for a made-for-TV movie and subsequent Disney+ revival. Her other credits include Desperate Housewives, Reba, Mann & Wife, and films like The Flight Before Christmas and The Beach Bum.
Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Lee Winslow)
The independent, studious, and all-around popular Laura Winslow was the apple of Urkel’s eye (much to her disdain), and while oftentimes vain and dismissive towards her pesky admirer, she eventually grew to love and care for him. Kellie Shanygne Williams experienced immense popularity during the show’s eleven years on air. While she went on to appear in shows like Moesha, The Parkers, Girlfriends, and Eve upon its conclusion, the actress largely stepped away from the limelight.
Williams has largely devoted her time to her family and various charities, though in 2020 she starred alongside her Family Matters co-star Darius McCrary in the made-for-TV movie Christmas in Carolina.
Jaleel White (Steven “Steve” Quincy Urkel)
Unexpected breakout star Jaleel White stole the hearts of audiences all across the world with his hilarious performance as the nerdy, mischievous, and downright grating Winslow’s next-door neighbor Steve Urkel. The vexing character developed a passionate crush on Laura and was constantly annoying Carl. Though he was initially supposed to be just a one-time character, he quickly became the face of Family Matters. With his oversized glasses, bright suspenders, and cropped capris, the character’s distinctive look and iconic catchphrases like “Did I do that?” helped make Urkel a popular culture phenomenon.
As with many actors who portray such iconic roles, White fell victim to typecasting and, for a while, was resentful of his legacy as Urkel, but has since embraced his beloved portrayal. White has remained in the industry and appeared in shows like Total Blackout, Me, Myself & I, Drunk History, and Raven’s Home, and most recently had a role in Adam Sandler’s Netflix sports dramedy Hustle in 2022.
