In a candid revelation that’s taking fans behind the scenes of one of America’s most beloved sitcoms, Jaleel White has opened up about the unexpected wardrobe challenges he faced while portraying the iconic Steve Urkel on “Family Matters.”
The 47-year-old actor’s upcoming memoir, “Growing Up Urkel” (releasing November 19), delves into his journey from child star to adult actor, revealing how network executives had to make some interesting adjustments to maintain the show’s family-friendly image.
Growing Pains Behind The Scenes
White’s transformation from teenager to young adult during the show’s run from 1989 to 1998 led to some awkward conversations in the wardrobe department. By the eighth season, executives approached the situation with careful consideration, requesting changes to Urkel’s signature look.
“Let’s get rid of the suspenders. According to his memoir excerpts published by The Sun, White recalls hearing someone tell him to lower his pants, too. The reason? The actor’s maturing physique was becoming increasingly noticeable in Urkel’s characteristically tight jeans, leading to what executives diplomatically referred to as a “bulge” issue.
More Than Just Wardrobe Woes
Costume changes weren’t the only physical challenges. White reveals that his commitment to maintaining Urkel’s signature high-pitched voice had unexpected consequences. Speaking at 90s Con 2024, he shared, “I spoke to a doctor, and what happened was that during puberty I spoke at the same pitch for extended periods of time. If the pitch was choppy, I wouldn’t have damaged it as much.”
The vocal strain became a serious concern for the young actor. “It was kind of a scary thing for me to go through,” White admits, though he reassures fans that his vocal issues are now “in remission.”
The Price Of Fame
White’s experience highlights the unique challenges faced by child actors growing up in the spotlight. While Steve Urkel became a cultural phenomenon, the role came with its share of difficulties. The actor describes the uncomfortable experience of “peeling” himself out of his increasingly tight costume “like a banana” during his college years.
Despite these challenges, White’s portrayal of Steve Urkel helped make “Family Matters” a cornerstone of ABC’s TGIF lineup. His character’s evolution from a guest star to the show’s breakout star speaks to White’s talent and adaptability as a young performer.
Looking Forward
Now married to Nicoletta Ruhl since May 2024, White appears to have found peace with his unique place in television history. His memoir promises to offer more insights into his journey, with the actor recently sharing on Instagram: “The peaks and valleys of growing up playing that character were wild, and I met everyone imaginable along the journey. You will be so surprised who I crossed paths with and how.”
For fans eager to revisit the series, “Family Matters” is currently available for streaming on Max. White’s memoir, “Growing Up Urkel,” hits Amazon and bookstores on November 19, promising readers an unfiltered look at one of television’s most memorable characters and the young actor who brought him to life. This story serves as a reminder that behind every beloved TV character, there’s a real person navigating the complexities of growing up—sometimes in particularly tight pants.
Table of Contents