Jaleel White’s portrayal of Steve Urkel on Family Matters made him a household name in the 1990s. His character’s catchphrase, “Did I do that?”, became iconic, and his role significantly contributed to the show’s success. But how much did White earn for bringing Urkel to life? Let’s delve into the details of his salary during the show’s run.
Peak Earnings Per Episode
At the height of Family Matters, Jaleel White’s salary was reported to be $180,000 per episode. Given that the show aired 22 episodes per season, this amounted to approximately $4 million annually. Adjusted for inflation, this figure would be equivalent to about $300,000 per episode or $7 million per season in today’s terms.
Merchandising Royalties
Beyond his acting salary, White also benefited from the show’s merchandising success. Family Matters capitalized on Urkel’s popularity with various products, including action figures, lunchboxes, and even a cereal named “Urkel-Os.” White had a merchandising clause in his contract, earning up to 5% of the net profits from these products. This additional income stream further bolstered his earnings during the show’s peak years.
Syndication and Residuals
Even after Family Matters concluded in 1998, Jaleel White continued to earn from the show’s syndication. Reruns of the series on various networks and streaming platforms have kept Urkel’s legacy alive, providing residuals to the cast. While the exact figures are not publicly disclosed, it’s common for actors to receive residual payments for reruns, contributing to their ongoing income.
Conclusion
Jaleel White’s role as Steve Urkel was not only a career-defining moment but also a financially rewarding one. With a substantial salary per episode, additional income from merchandising, and ongoing residuals from syndication, White’s earnings from Family Matters have contributed significantly to his financial success.
