It’s been more than 30 years since Family Matters first hit TV screens, but fans still can’t get enough of the Winslows — and of course, their unforgettable neighbor, Steve Urkel.
The show ran for nine amazing seasons, becoming one of the most beloved sitcoms of the ’90s. But after the laughter faded and the credits rolled, what happened to the stars who made it so special?
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and catch up with the Family Matters cast to see where they are now — from career changes to personal milestones and everything in between.
Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow)
Who could forget Carl Winslow, the grumpy but good-hearted Chicago cop with a love for donuts and justice?
After Family Matters, Reginald VelJohnson continued acting, appearing in hit movies and TV shows like Die Hard, CSI, and Hart of Dixie.
In recent years, he’s voiced animated characters and appeared in family-friendly films. VelJohnson remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, known for his warmth, humor, and that iconic dad energy that never fades.
Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Winslow)
The strong and wise Harriette Winslow was the heart of the show.
Jo Marie Payton left Family Matters during its final season but went on to enjoy a successful career in television. She lent her voice to Suga Mama in Disney’s The Proud Family and appeared in various sitcoms and stage productions.
Now in her 70s, Payton continues to act and remains active in charity work and mentoring young performers. She’s often praised for paving the way for strong, empowered TV mothers.
Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow)
Every ‘90s kid remembers Laura Winslow, the girl who had Steve Urkel wrapped around her finger.
After the show, Kellie Shanygne Williams took a step back from Hollywood to focus on her family and personal life. However, she has made occasional appearances on TV, including reunions and guest spots on nostalgic programs.
Williams also dedicates time to mentoring youth and community outreach — showing she’s just as strong and kind as her on-screen character.
Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow)
Eddie Winslow, the charming but sometimes mischievous son, grew up before our eyes.
Darius McCrary continued his career in entertainment after the show ended, appearing in Transformers, The Young and the Restless, and several independent films. He’s also a musician, producer, and activist.
Although he’s faced personal challenges, McCrary has remained a familiar face in the industry and often participates in nostalgic interviews and events celebrating the Family Matters legacy.
Jaimee Foxworth (Judy Winslow)
Ah, Judy Winslow — the youngest Winslow child who famously disappeared after season four.
Jaimee Foxworth faced a difficult journey after leaving the show. She took time away from acting and later opened up about personal struggles in her adult life.
Today, Foxworth has rebuilt her life with resilience and grace. She’s now a proud mother and often speaks publicly about overcoming challenges and finding strength through family.
Rosetta LeNoire (Estelle “Mother” Winslow)
Everyone adored Mother Winslow, the wise and witty grandmother who kept the family grounded.
Sadly, Rosetta LeNoire passed away in 2002 at age 90. Her contribution to theater and television remains legendary. She founded the Amas Repertory Theatre in New York to promote diversity and inclusion in the performing arts — a legacy that still inspires new generations of artists.
Michelle Thomas (Myra Monkhouse)
The late Michelle Thomas played Myra Monkhouse, Steve Urkel’s sweet, devoted girlfriend.
Michelle brought warmth and humor to every scene, becoming one of the show’s most beloved supporting characters. Tragically, she passed away in 1998 at just 30 years old after battling cancer.
Her short but impactful career continues to be remembered with deep affection by fans and co-stars alike.
Telma Hopkins (Rachel Crawford)
Telma Hopkins, who played Harriette’s sister Rachel, was already a TV star before Family Matters.
After the series, she continued to act in numerous sitcoms and dramas, including Half & Half, Are We There Yet?, and Dead to Me.
Hopkins has remained a consistent presence on television and is often praised for her versatility and timeless charm.
Jaleel White (Steve Urkel)
Let’s be honest — Steve Urkel was Family Matters.
Jaleel White’s performance as the lovable nerd became a pop culture phenomenon. After the show, White went on to voice Sonic the Hedgehog, star in various films, and even compete on Dancing with the Stars.
He later created and produced his own shows, proving his talent extends far beyond Urkel’s suspenders. In recent years, he’s opened up about the challenges of child stardom, sharing how he learned to embrace his legacy with pride.
Bryton James (Richie Crawford)
The adorable Richie Crawford, Rachel’s young son, grew up right before viewers’ eyes.
Bryton James transitioned seamlessly into adult acting, finding major success on The Young and the Restless, where he won a Daytime Emmy Award.
He’s also active in charity work and voice acting, proving that his early start on Family Matters was just the beginning of a long, successful career.
Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo)
“Waldo Geraldo Faldo” — the goofy but lovable friend of Eddie Winslow — became a fan favorite for his hilarious one-liners and kind heart.
Shawn Harrison has since taken on smaller acting roles and done voice work for animated series. He’s also an advocate for education and arts programs for underprivileged youth.
Though he stepped out of the Hollywood spotlight, fans still remember him as the charmingly clueless Waldo.
Orlando Brown (3J Winslow)
Orlando Brown joined the show in its later seasons as 3J, a foster child the Winslows took in.
After Family Matters, Brown went on to star in That’s So Raven, becoming a Disney Channel staple. However, he’s faced legal and personal troubles over the years.
Recently, he’s been working toward personal growth and reconnecting with his faith — showing that everyone deserves a chance to start fresh.
The Cast Today: Still a Family
Even decades after the finale, the Family Matters cast remains close. They’ve reunited for interviews, conventions, and nostalgic events celebrating the show’s enduring legacy.
Their bond off-screen mirrors the warmth they brought to our TVs every week. It’s clear that Family Matters wasn’t just a show — it truly was a family.
The Legacy Lives On
The magic of Family Matters continues through reruns, streaming, and devoted fans who still quote Urkel’s famous line, “Did I do that?”
The show proved that wholesome comedy, strong values, and genuine storytelling never go out of style. And its cast — both those who remain and those we’ve lost — left an indelible mark on television history.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, Family Matters wasn’t just about one quirky neighbor or a Chicago family — it was about what really matters: love, forgiveness, and togetherness.
The cast’s journeys since the show ended reflect that same spirit — overcoming challenges, embracing growth, and leaving legacies that continue to inspire new generations of fans.
FAQs
Q1: Is the cast of Family Matters still in touch?
Yes! Many of the original cast members still stay in contact and occasionally reunite for interviews or conventions.
Q2: Which cast members have passed away?
Michelle Thomas (Myra Monkhouse) and Rosetta LeNoire (Mother Winslow) are among the cast members who have passed away.
Q3: Did Jaleel White and Reginald VelJohnson stay friends?
Yes. While they’ve admitted to ups and downs during filming, they’ve since reconnected and share mutual respect.
Q4: Is there a Family Matters reboot planned?
As of now, there’s no official reboot, but fans and cast members have expressed interest in revisiting the show.
Q5: Where can I watch Family Matters today?
The show is available on several streaming platforms and remains a staple on classic TV networks.
