The Cast of Family Matters: A Retrospective on the Iconic Sitcom
Hey Readers!
Welcome to our deep dive into the beloved cast of "Family Matters," the iconic sitcom that aired from 1989 to 1998. Join us as we journey through the lives and careers of the actors who brought the Winslow family and their hilarious adventures to life.
The Winslow Family
Harriet Winslow (Jo Marie Payton)
Harriet Winslow, played by the talented Jo Marie Payton, was the matriarch of the Winslow family. With her stern demeanor and unwavering love for her family, Harriet kept her house in order and her husband in line. Payton’s portrayal of Harriet earned her an Emmy nomination and made her a household name.
Carl Winslow (Reginald VelJohnson)
Carl Winslow, portrayed by the charismatic Reginald VelJohnson, was the lovable police officer and head of the Winslow family. Despite his often bumbling nature, Carl possessed a heart of gold and always put his family first. VelJohnson’s portrayal of Carl made him an instant fan favorite.
Eddie Winslow (Darius McCrary)
Eddie Winslow, played by the charming Darius McCrary, was the eldest Winslow child. Known for his streetwise attitude and comedic delivery, Eddie was often the catalyst for the family’s misadventures. McCrary’s portrayal of Eddie earned him legions of fans and helped define the character for a generation.
The Winslow Cousins
Laura Winslow (Kellie Shanygne Williams)
Laura Winslow, portrayed by the vibrant Kellie Shanygne Williams, was the second eldest Winslow child. Known for her infectious laugh and sharp wit, Laura was the glue that held the family together. Williams’ portrayal of Laura earned her an NAACP Image Award and made her a breakout star.
Judy Winslow (Jaimee Foxworth)
Judy Winslow, played by the adorable Jaimee Foxworth, was the youngest Winslow child. With her big blue eyes and sweet personality, Judy brought joy and laughter to the Winslow household. Foxworth’s portrayal of Judy made her a fan favorite and helped introduce a new generation to the sitcom.
Rachel Crawford (Telma Hopkins)
Rachel Crawford, portrayed by the talented Telma Hopkins, was the Winslows’ next-door neighbor and close friend. Known for her fiery personality and unwavering loyalty, Rachel often found herself embroiled in the Winslows’ antics. Hopkins’ portrayal of Rachel added a vibrant and memorable character to the show.
Behind-the-Scenes Tidbits
The Winslow Residence
The Winslow residence, located at 161 Maple Street in Chicago, became an iconic setting for the sitcom. The house, which was actually located in Deerfield, Illinois, became synonymous with the show and its characters.
The Theme Song
The theme song for "Family Matters," titled "As Days Go By," was written and performed by the legendary singer-songwriter Curtis Mayfield. The song perfectly captured the show’s heartwarming and nostalgic atmosphere.
The Spin-Off
In 1993, "Family Matters" spawned a spin-off series titled "Meego." The series followed the adventures of Meego, a Martian who befriended the Winslow family. The spin-off ran for four seasons and featured many of the original cast members in guest appearances.
Table Breakdown: "Family Matters" Cast
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Jo Marie Payton | Harriet Winslow |
| Reginald VelJohnson | Carl Winslow |
| Darius McCrary | Eddie Winslow |
| Kellie Shanygne Williams | Laura Winslow |
| Jaimee Foxworth | Judy Winslow |
| Telma Hopkins | Rachel Crawford |
| Michelle Thomas | Myra Monkhouse |
| Rosetta LeNoire | Estelle Winslow |
| Cherie Johnson | Maxine Johnson |
| Shawn Harrison | Walter Jones |
| Kellie Williams | Rhonda Jones |
| Darius McCrary | Steve Urkel |
Conclusion
"Family Matters" remains a beloved sitcom that has captured the hearts of generations. The talented cast brought the Winslow family to life with their unforgettable performances. From the hilarious antics of Eddie Winslow to the heartwarming bond between Harriet and Carl, the show left an enduring legacy on television and popular culture.
We encourage you to check out our other articles on classic sitcoms and their iconic casts!
FAQ about the Cast of Family Matters
Who played Steve Urkel?
Steve Urkel was played by Jaleel White.
Who played Carl Winslow?
Carl Winslow was played by Reginald VelJohnson.
Who played Harriette Winslow?
Harriette Winslow was played by Jo Marie Payton-Noble.
Who played Eddie Winslow?
Eddie Winslow was played by Darius McCrary.
Who played Laura Winslow?
Laura Winslow was played by Kellie Shanygne Williams.
Who played Rachel Crawford?
Rachel Crawford was played by Telma Hopkins.
Who played Myra Monkhouse?
Myra Monkhouse was played by Rosetta LeNoire.
Who played Richie Crawford?
Richie Crawford was played by Bryton James.
Who played Waldo Geraldo Faldo?
Waldo Geraldo Faldo was played by Shawn Harrison.
Who played Judy Winslow?
Judy Winslow was played by Jaimee Foxworth.
