For generations to come, Jaleel White will forever be known as everyone’s favorite TV annoying neighbor, Steve Urkel. But there is another one Family matters character who shares a special place in the hearts of viewers: Stefan Urquelle. Although White was successful playing both characters, he was looking forward to playing Stefan on the TGIF sitcom. The actor’s TV personality recently revealed why he didn’t want to play the role and explained why years later he was grateful for the opportunity.
The Family matters The student’s startling take on Steve Urkel’s alter ego surfaced when he appeared The conversation (opens in a new tab), where he celebrated the birthday of his great friend and presenter Akbar Gbajabiamila. It was co-host Sheryl Underwood who asked White about the sitcom’s kind nature, and surprisingly, the actor seemed a little annoyed. From there he explained:
You know what, I didn’t even want to play Stefan. I thought Stefan was boring! And I mean, thank God I played Stefan because he allowed black women to see me for who I really am. I had no idea! That’s the norm, I mean I could drive to Crenshaw, and straight to a bus stop, “Hi, it’s Stefan.” Neri, we have a particular vision in the neighborhood!
His interpretation of the character is understandable, considering how funny and unpredictable Steve was compared to his alter ego. Although, as Jaleel White pointed out, Urquelle changed the black community’s view of him as a person. Prior to Stefan’s debut, some black viewers may have associated the nerdy, uncool neighbor traits with White himself. Fortunately, such a thing did not affect him and his role even helped him in his love life. The 45-year-old reality star went on to say about the role:
I am very happy to have played this character because he saved me in my community.
While it’s okay to be accepted by the general public, there’s nothing better than connecting with your community in a meaningful way. And what’s so beautiful about Jaleel White’s work Family matters is that it allowed him to show different facets of the black experience. He showed the academic world through Steve and showed the life of a young professional through the working model Stefan. All in all, White definitely deserves the flowers of him.
In recent years, the everlasting TV guest star has been increasingly open about her time on the classic ABC sitcom. Stefan Urquelle’s surprising popularity wasn’t the only change he went through, as he talked about not initially feeling welcomed by his co-stars once Steve Urkel took on the lead role. Her cast members were also candid, as co-star Jo Marie Payton recalled that she wanted to physically fight her after a tense interaction. However, the cast appears to be on good terms years later. And White (who even started a marijuana company inspired by his character) can be proud to know that he helped bring two iconic characters to life.
Family matters It’s still one of the best TGIF sitcoms of the 90’s and you can watch the classic show in syndication. You can also enjoy all nine seasons by getting an HBO Max membership.
Source: Cinemablend
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