Fans of the iconic sitcom “Family Matters” are buzzing about recent comments made by Jaleel White, the actor best known for his role as Steve Urkel. During a recent interview, White seemed to take a passive-aggressive jab at his former co-stars, reigniting discussions about his on-set behavior and the tensions that reportedly existed during the show’s nine-season run.
The origins of the controversy
White, 48, who was just 12 years old when he first appeared on “Family Matters” in 1989, quickly became the show’s breakout star. His character, the nerdy yet lovable Urkel, captured the hearts of audiences and secured White a prominent position on the call sheet. However, this rise to fame did not come without its challenges. Colleagues like Jo Marie Payton, who portrayed Harriet Winslow, have described White as confrontational, with Payton even alleging that he once wanted to physically fight her over creative differences.
Recent revelations and responses
In a recent appearance on Sirius XM’s Radio Andy, host Andy Cohen confronted White about the claims that he was difficult to work with. White’s response was telling: “They’re also over 70, and I’ve been told not to argue with my elders from the time I was 12 years old.” This comment sparked further debate among fans, with many taking to social media to express their opinions on White’s behavior.
White’s defense
As he promotes his memoir, “Growing Up Urkel,” White has acknowledged some of his past behaviors, admitting that he often brought a basketball to set and dribbled it incessantly. He reflected, “If that is the extent to which I was called difficult, then OK.” This self-awareness, however, has not shielded him from criticism. Many fans have taken to social media to express their views, with some labeling him as “insufferable” and others questioning his dismissive attitude towards his co-stars’ experiences.
Mixed reactions from co-stars
While White has faced backlash, his former co-stars have offered a more nuanced perspective. Payton has stated, “Sometimes you bump heads and things — but I’ll always love him.” She emphasized that despite their differences, she views White as a child, regardless of his age. Reginald VelJohnson, who played Carl Winslow, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the challenges White faced as a young actor trying to fit into an established cast.
The legacy of ‘Family Matters’
The cast of “Family Matters” reunited in 2017, discussing the possibility of a reboot. Payton expressed enthusiasm, saying, “If they dropped a script at our feet when we walked out of here, we would come back in tomorrow.” However, White has since distanced himself from the idea of reprising his role, opting instead to pitch a new show concept that focuses on his journey as a child television star.
