The ‘90s was a decade known for popular and wholesome sitcoms and shows. Numerous shows were aired during that era, the likes of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Friends, Roseanne, among others. The massive success of these TV shows can be proved by the number of ‘90s shows being revived recently. Although some reboots have been more successful than others, this only proves that not all the shows in that era are destined for a comeback and this may just apply to Family Matters.
Recently, on The Evolution of Jaleel White panel at the 90s Con 2024 in Daytona Beach, Florida, Jaleel White, who portrayed Steve Urkel in Family Matters, shared several reasons he believes Family Matters “belongs only in the ’90s.
Jaleel White states reason why he thinks the show won’t work
The 47-year-old actor admitted that the question of a Family Matters revival is one of the most challenging he’s faced in a long time. He explained that he has spent time observing why shows like Family Matters were successful in the ‘90s, and he believes that Family Matters lacks the tension, elements, and characteristics needed for a successful revival and viewer retention in the 21st century.
He also revealed that he is hesitant to bring back the show unless he is sure that the show will not fail. ”I’m not going to try us out on the field for anything less than absolute victory,” he noted. White also believes a Family Matters revival wouldn’t work because of the loss of important cast members. He pointed to the passing of Michelle Thomas, who portrayed Myra Monkhouse in 1998, and Rosetta LeNoire, who played Estelle Winslow in 2002.
The ‘Family Matters’ star reveals that Family Matters’ Damaged His Voice
Family Matters, a spin-off of Perfect Strangers, was a comedy series that was loved by many. It was about the misadventures and escapades of the Winslow family, an African-American middle-class family living in Chicago.
Jaleel White played the role of Steve Urkel, who was introduced half-way into the first season as a one-time character. But, Urkel literally stole the show and became the star and main character of the series. Urkel was known for his quirky personality, weird but unique fashion sense and a high-pitched voice which made his character one of the most popular characters of 1990s television.
White later revealed during ’90s Con 2024 that maintaining Urkel’s signature voice during his adolescence caused lasting damage. According to White, a doctor explained that consistently speaking in the same high, nasal pitch during puberty strained his voice, something that could have been avoided if his vocal pitch had fluctuated more.
Family Matters premiered in September 1989 and ran for nine seasons, with the final episode airing in July 1998. Sadly, there probably won’t be a Family Matters revival in the near future, but if you’re feeling nostalgic, you can always stream the show on HBO Max.