Jaleel White Discusses Past Conflict with Will Smith in Memoir

Jaleel White, best known for his role as Steve Urkel on the popular television series «Family Matters,» has recently shared insights into a past conflict with renowned actor Will Smith. Speaking to Us Weekly in a promotional discussion about his newly released memoir, «Growing Up Urkel,» White opened up about his previous interactions with Smith, which he says did not unfold as he had anticipated.

During the interview, White commented, «What’s weird is when you cross paths in our business, you never quite know how much or how little a moment meant to each other. And that can kind of play with your brain.» These remarks reflect the complexity of relationships in the entertainment industry, where fleeting encounters may hold differing significance for those involved.

In his memoir, released on the preceding Tuesday, White, aged 47, further elaborated on his admiration for Smith, indicating that he had long recognized Smith’s potential to become a major force in the entertainment world. «I just always want Will to know — and I’m not sure he ever did — how much I admired his forging ahead,» White expressed. Reflecting on Smith’s past performances, he mentioned pivotal moments such as the NBA All-Star Stay in School Jam, noting, «I saw it coming before the rest of America got a chance to see it coming. I could see it coming in NBA All-Star Stay in School Jam and would think, ‘This dude’s freaking energy is huge in the room.'»

White concluded by acknowledging the lack of recognition such intuitive insights receive at a young age, stating, «And you wouldn’t necessarily get credit for that when you’re a kid.» His statements convey a sense of respect and appreciation for Smith’s career trajectory, despite the misunderstandings they may have had.