Jaleel White, the actor beloved for his iconic role as Steve Urkel on Family Matters, recently shared insights into the surprising challenges and lasting impact of portraying the nerdy neighbor. Speaking at 90s Con 2024 in Daytona Beach, Florida, White discussed the vocal toll of Urkel’s distinctive voice and reflected on his complex journey with the hit sitcom.
During a panel moderated by actress Kimberly J. Brown, White revealed that Urkel’s high-pitched, nasal voice, a defining characteristic of the character, actually caused him lasting vocal damage. “I spoke to a doctor,” White explained, “and what happened is during puberty I spoke at the same pitch for extended periods of time. If the pitch had been going all over the place I wouldn’t have damaged it quite as much.” He elaborated that maintaining Urkel’s signature tone for extended periods during filming strained his vocal cords during puberty.
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White recounted a period around ages 15 and 16 when he felt his voice weakening, receiving network notes requesting him to speak more clearly. Fortunately, with vocal coaching and medical attention, White stated his voice is now “in remission and I’m fine now.” Despite the vocal strain, White emphasized he wouldn’t change his experience, considering it “a small sacrifice to make for one hell of a legacy.”
Family Matters aired for nine seasons, from 1989 to 1998, and Steve Urkel quickly became a cultural phenomenon. However, behind the scenes, White disclosed in a previous interview that he “was not welcomed to the cast at all” initially. He clarified that his role was intended as a one-time guest appearance, and the unexpected popularity of Steve Urkel took everyone by surprise.
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Despite any past tensions, 90s Con 2023 saw a heartwarming reunion between White and Family Matters co-stars Jo Marie Payton, Reginald VelJohnson, and Kellie Shanygne Williams. VelJohnson acknowledged the initial dynamic, stating, “He had a lot to deal with, because we were already established as a family but he had to get into the group and introduce himself.” Payton affectionately added, “I will always love him.”
Looking ahead, fans eager for more behind-the-scenes stories can anticipate White’s upcoming book, Growing Up Urkel, scheduled for release this November. This memoir promises further insights into his experiences on set and his extensive career, offering a deeper look into the life of the actor behind the unforgettable Steve Urkel from Family Matters.
