It’s been over 30 years since Family Matters first hit our TV screens, giving us nine seasons of laughter, love, and unforgettable family moments. Whether it was Steve Urkel’s “Did I do that?” or the Winslow family navigating everyday struggles, the show became a staple of ‘90s television.
But after the finale aired in 1998, fans were left wondering: what happened to the cast of Family Matters? Let’s take a trip down memory lane and catch up with the stars of this beloved sitcom.
Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow)
Reginald VelJohnson played the no-nonsense yet lovable Carl Winslow, a Chicago cop with a heart of gold. His role as the Winslow patriarch remains iconic.
After the show, VelJohnson continued acting, appearing in Die Hard sequels, TV shows like Bones, Hart of Dixie, and even lending his voice to animated projects. Today, he’s still a familiar face in Hollywood, often reprising cop-like roles that made him a household name.
Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Winslow)
As Harriette Winslow, Jo Marie Payton gave us a strong, witty, and caring mother figure. She originated the role on Perfect Strangers before leading the spinoff.
She left Family Matters near the end of season nine due to creative frustrations but went on to have a successful career. Payton voiced Suga Mama in Disney’s The Proud Family and reprised the role in the reboot The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder. She’s still active in TV and film, reminding us why she’ll always be one of TV’s most iconic moms.
Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow)
Darius McCrary brought charm and humor as Eddie Winslow, the eldest son who constantly tested his parents’ patience.
After Family Matters, McCrary continued acting, appearing in Young & Restless, Star, and lending his voice to Transformers. He’s also been active in music, showcasing his talents as a singer. Despite personal ups and downs, he’s stayed in the entertainment industry.
Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow)
As Laura Winslow, Kellie Shanygne Williams became the girl next door who constantly dealt with Steve Urkel’s antics (and eventually his love).
After the show, she starred in What About Joan and Eve. Williams later shifted focus to family life and community work, even starting a program to give kids opportunities in the arts. She occasionally makes appearances in TV projects but is more dedicated to behind-the-scenes work and advocacy.
Jaimee Foxworth (Judy Winslow)
Jaimee Foxworth played Judy Winslow, the youngest Winslow child who mysteriously disappeared from the series after season four. The writers wrote her off without explanation—a move that shocked fans.
After leaving the show, Foxworth faced personal struggles and shifted away from mainstream acting. In later years, she has been open about her journey, becoming an advocate for others facing challenges. Today, she lives a quieter life with her family, focusing on motherhood and personal growth.
Rosetta LeNoire (Estelle “Mother” Winslow)
Rosetta LeNoire played the wise and loving Grandma Winslow. Her character added warmth and humor to the show.
LeNoire was already a Broadway veteran and acting legend before Family Matters. After the series, she slowed down her career and passed away in 2002 at the age of 90. Her legacy continues, especially through the Amas Musical Theatre, which she founded to promote diversity in the arts.
Jaleel White (Steve Urkel)
Jaleel White’s Steve Urkel became a cultural phenomenon, originally intended as a one-time guest but quickly stealing the spotlight. His quirky mannerisms, high-pitched voice, and undying love for Laura made him unforgettable.
Post-Family Matters, White worked on shows like Dreamgirls, Dancing With the Stars, and voiced Sonic the Hedgehog in the animated series. More recently, he appeared in The Big Show Show, Me, Myself & I, and even launched his own cannabis brand. Despite being typecast early in his career, White has successfully reinvented himself as a versatile actor and entrepreneur.
Telma Hopkins (Rachel Crawford)
Telma Hopkins played Harriette’s sister, Rachel, who lived with the Winslows while raising her son Richie. Rachel’s sass and comedic timing made her a fan favorite.
After Family Matters, Hopkins continued acting in sitcoms like Half & Half, Are We There Yet?, and Partners. She’s remained active in Hollywood, proving her staying power with decades in the business.
Bryton James (Richie Crawford)
Bryton James joined the show as little Richie, Rachel’s son, and grew up right before our eyes.
He went on to star in The Young and the Restless, where he won a Daytime Emmy Award. He also voices Virgil Hawkins/Static in the DC animated series Young Justice. Today, James is thriving in his career as both an actor and voice artist.
Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo)
Who could forget Waldo Geraldo Faldo? Shawn Harrison brought endless laughs as Eddie’s goofy best friend.
After Family Matters, Harrison appeared in shows like Girlfriends and voiced characters in animated series. Though not as active on screen in recent years, his role as Waldo remains iconic for fans of the sitcom.
Orlando Brown (3J)
Orlando Brown joined the cast later as 3J, the Winslows’ adopted son.
He went on to star in That’s So Raven, becoming a Disney Channel staple. However, Brown has faced significant personal struggles in the public eye. Recently, he has expressed efforts to turn his life around and focus on family and faith.
Why the Cast of Family Matters Still Matters Today
The Winslows weren’t just a TV family—they represented love, loyalty, and resilience. The cast members went their own ways after the finale, some staying in the spotlight and others stepping away. But together, they left us with timeless memories and valuable lessons about family.
Conclusion
So, whatever happened to the cast of Family Matters? Some continued thriving in Hollywood, others pursued new paths, and a few faced struggles—but all of them remain part of TV history. The Winslows may have been fictional, but the impact they made on viewers was very real.
Decades later, the show still resonates, and its cast continues to inspire fans old and new.
FAQs
1. Why was Judy Winslow written off Family Matters?
The show’s producers decided to cut her character without explanation, focusing instead on Steve Urkel’s growing popularity.
2. Is the cast of Family Matters still in touch today?
Yes, many cast members have reunited over the years and remain supportive of each other.
3. Did Jaleel White regret playing Steve Urkel?
White has admitted it was tough being typecast but also recognizes the role made him a household name.
4. What was the biggest success story after Family Matters?
Bryton James achieved long-term success with The Young and the Restless, winning multiple awards.
5. Where can I watch Family Matters today?
The show is available on streaming platforms like Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.
