Jaleel White, widely recognized for his portrayal of Steve Urkel on the hit 1990s sitcom Family Matters, is reflecting on the challenges of growing up on set. In his upcoming memoir, Growing Up Urkel, White reveals that network executives asked him to change his iconic wardrobe as he matured into adulthood.
“Let’s Get Rid of the Suspenders”
White, who joined the show as a 13-year-old in 1989 and played Urkel until the show ended in 1998, shared how his transformation from a teenager to an adult led to wardrobe adjustments. By the eighth season, White was in his early 20s, and his physique no longer aligned with Urkel’s geeky image.
“Let’s get rid of the suspenders. Lower his pants, too,” White recalls executives telling him. “Oh and … It’s getting a bit uncomfortable watching him in tight jeans. There’s a, uh … bulge.” The actor admitted that peeling off the form-fitting jeans at the end of a long day felt like “peeling a banana.”
While these changes were made to maintain the character’s family-friendly appeal, White noted the physical toll the role took on him. Speaking in Urkel’s high-pitched voice as a grown man became “physically painful,” he shared.
A Difficult Transition for Jaleel White
As White grew older, balancing his own identity with Urkel’s persona became increasingly challenging. By the time he was in college, the strain of embodying the nerdy, childlike character had him contemplating leaving the show. However, he ultimately stayed until its conclusion in 1998.
The challenges extended beyond wardrobe and vocal strain. In past interviews, White has opened up about conflicts with cast members, including feeling unwelcome during his early years on set. Despite these struggles, White’s portrayal of Urkel remains a cultural touchstone.
Today, White continues to share his journey with fans. Married earlier this year to Nicoletta Ruhl, he is also a proud father to his 15-year-old daughter, Samaya. As Growing Up Urkel hits shelves, readers will gain deeper insights into the highs and lows of his time on one of television’s most beloved sitcoms.