The Legacy of Family Matters
“Family Matters” wasn’t just another ’90s sitcom. It became a cultural phenomenon, thanks to its heartwarming storylines, relatable characters, and, of course, Steve Urkel’s unforgettable antics. But since the show ended in 1998, many fans have wondered what happened to the cast—and more importantly, how they’re still keeping the money coming in today.
Let’s take a look at how the beloved cast of “Family Matters” has managed their wealth, careers, and personal brands over the decades. You might be surprised to learn that many of them are doing more than just cashing in on residuals.
Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow): Staying Steady in Hollywood
Reginald VelJohnson, who played the iconic Carl Winslow, is one of the most recognizable faces from the show. But he didn’t just vanish after the series wrapped.
He kept a steady stream of acting roles going—especially those in law enforcement. Whether it was reprising his role as Sgt. Al Powell in “Die Hard” or guest starring on shows like “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” or “The Equalizer,” VelJohnson built a reputation as a dependable working actor. He also makes regular appearances at fan conventions, which can bring in thousands per weekend. On top of that, he invests in real estate, which helps maintain his financial health without relying solely on acting gigs.
Jaleel White (Steve Urkel): From Catchphrases to Cash Flow
“Did I do that?” Yes, Jaleel White did a lot more than just play Steve Urkel.
After the show ended, White avoided getting typecast by stepping into voice work—like voicing Sonic the Hedgehog in multiple animated series. But he didn’t stop there. White attended UCLA, studied film and TV writing, and became involved in production.
Today, he’s a successful entrepreneur. He launched his own cannabis brand called ItsPurpl in partnership with 710 Labs. It’s a premium line that’s doing well, particularly in California. Between smart investments, acting, writing, and cannabis entrepreneurship, White is doing far more than living off ’90s nostalgia.
Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow): From Actress to Advocate
Kellie Shanygne Williams was the voice of reason on “Family Matters,” playing Carl’s strong-willed daughter, Laura.
After the show, she continued acting for a while but later turned her focus to family, education, and community work. She started the Kellie Williams Program, which helps young people in Washington D.C. learn about film and TV production.
Though not as active in Hollywood, Williams leverages her past fame for brand partnerships, appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. These events can be quite lucrative, and she’s also involved in behind-the-scenes media work that keeps her financially stable.
Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow): Still in the Music and Entertainment Biz
Darius McCrary brought cool older-brother energy to “Family Matters.” Since the show ended, he’s dabbled in music and taken on several acting roles.
He’s appeared in series like “The Young and the Restless” and voiced Jazz in the 2007 “Transformers” movie. But McCrary also focused on music—both as a singer and a producer. Though not a chart-topper, he continues to tour and perform.
McCrary has also explored podcasting and digital content, areas where influencers and former celebs can earn income through sponsorships, Patreon, and merchandise.
Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Winslow): Still Working in TV and Voice Roles
Jo Marie Payton played Harriette, the rock of the Winslow family. She continued working after “Family Matters,” including recurring roles on shows like “Will & Grace” and “The Proud Family.”
In fact, she reprised her voice role as Suga Mama in “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” on Disney+. Voice acting pays well, especially for animated series tied to major studios. And Disney+ residuals are a nice long-term bonus.
She’s also a frequent guest at fan expos and conventions. Plus, she occasionally takes on stage roles and speaking engagements.
Jaimee Foxworth (Judy Winslow): A Tough Journey, But Still Moving Forward
Jaimee Foxworth’s story is different from the rest. After her character Judy was written off the show, she faced financial and personal struggles—including issues with substance abuse and a controversial adult film stint.
But in recent years, she’s made a comeback. She became an advocate for mental health and addiction recovery. She’s been featured on daytime shows and documentaries, earning from her appearances and her story.
She also occasionally partners with platforms to share her story for educational purposes—turning past pain into financial and personal growth.
Bryton James (Richie Crawford): From Child Star to Daytime Emmy Winner
Bryton James played Richie, the adorable child actor who later became a regular on “The Young and the Restless.” He’s now a staple on that soap opera and has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards.
Soap opera actors earn steady paychecks with long-running roles. Combine that with endorsement deals, convention appearances, and union benefits, and it’s easy to see how Bryton built—and maintained—wealth over time.
He’s also invested in property and co-founded RADD (Recording Artists, Actors, and Athletes Against Drunk Driving), adding philanthropic influence to his resume.
Residuals: The Show That Keeps on Paying
Many people wonder: do the “Family Matters” stars still get paid?
The short answer: Yes—but not as much as you’d think.
Since the show aired on ABC and later moved to CBS, and given its heavy syndication, the stars do receive residual checks. However, the older the show, the smaller the checks tend to get, especially for non-lead actors. Only those who negotiated good contracts or had points on the back end (rare at the time) get substantial residual income today.
Still, even modest checks from reruns on networks and streaming services like Hulu or MAX can add up over time.
How Brand Building Helps Them Stay Relevant
Some cast members have used their fame to build personal brands. Whether it’s speaking engagements, lifestyle businesses, or social media monetization, nostalgia sells—and these stars are tapping into that.
Jaleel White, for example, is active on Instagram and often goes viral for throwback content or funny skits. These platforms offer new revenue streams through brand deals, affiliate marketing, and sponsored posts.
Investments and Business Ventures
Aside from acting and appearances, many cast members have invested wisely. Some have real estate holdings, others are involved in production companies, and a few have dipped into the entrepreneurial pool.
Jaleel’s cannabis brand is a strong example of how leveraging name recognition can generate long-term passive income. Others, like VelJohnson, quietly grow their portfolios with investments in property and traditional finance.
Public Speaking and Conventions: A Surprise Goldmine
Pop culture conventions and nostalgia events are huge moneymakers. Cast members can earn thousands just for showing up and signing autographs or taking photos.
Jo Marie Payton, VelJohnson, and Jaleel White are popular guests at these events. For just a weekend of appearances, they can make more than some recurring TV roles pay.
Add speaking engagements to schools, panels, or television retrospectives, and you’ve got another income stream flowing.
Online Monetization and Streaming Royalties
Streaming has changed the game for older shows. Platforms like Hulu and MAX license old sitcoms for millions. While not all of that goes to actors, some do see royalties or increased demand for appearances.
Social media also opens doors. YouTube interviews, TikTok remixes, and Instagram Live Q&As—these modern platforms help them stay relevant and bring in cash via digital partnerships.
Merchandise and Licensing Deals
While they may not all sell T-shirts with their faces on them, licensing is another avenue. Companies creating nostalgic merch—like shirts, Funkos, or even comic books—often pay to use the likeness of characters. Actors may get a cut if their contract includes it.
Even small percentages can add up with the boom of ’90s nostalgia merch in recent years.
The Power of Nostalgia is Their Biggest Asset
Ultimately, what’s keeping the “Family Matters” cast financially afloat isn’t just luck—it’s the enduring love people have for the show.
It was wholesome. It was funny. And it left an emotional impact. That emotional connection is a valuable currency in today’s entertainment and influencer world.
When you’ve got millions of fans who still say “Did I do that?” in your voice, that’s marketing gold.
