Jaleel White Opens Up About His Time as Steve Urkel and the Challenges of Growing Up on TV

Jaleel White, the actor best known for his iconic role as Steve Urkel in the popular 1990s sitcom Family Matters, has been reflecting on his experiences as a child star in recent appearances and through his upcoming memoir, Growing Up Urkel.

In his book, White reveals some of the unique challenges he faced as he transitioned from childhood to adulthood while still on the show. One notable revelation is that he was asked by TV executives to hide his physical changes, particularly his “bulge,” to maintain the show’s family-friendly image. This involved altering his signature costume of hiked-up jeans and suspenders to looser jeans and a different style.

White also discussed the emotional obstacles he encountered during his time on Family Matters. Initially intended as a guest star, White felt he was not welcomed by the cast, and there were reports of intense interactions and difficulties working with some of his co-stars, including Jo Marie Payton and Reginald VelJohnson.

Despite these challenges, White’s portrayal of Steve Urkel remains a beloved character in American television history. His recent conversations, including an event at the Wilmington Library titled “Growing Up Urkel,” have provided fans with a deeper look into his career and personal growth.

White’s memoir, Growing Up Urkel, is set to be released on November 19 and promises to offer more insights into his life as a child actor and his journey beyond Family Matters.