Introduction: The Underrated Legacy of ‘Family Matters’
When people think of Black sitcoms, many automatically reference shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, The Cosby Show, or Martin. But there’s one classic show that often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves despite its massive cultural impact—Family Matters. Recently, Jaleel White, the actor who made Steve Urkel a household name, shared his thoughts on why Family Matters is not considered one of the best Black shows, even though it played a pivotal role in television history.
In this article, we will explore Jaleel White’s take on why Family Matters doesn’t always make the top lists, the challenges the show faced, and how it still managed to leave a lasting impact on TV and pop culture.
What Makes a “Best Black Show”?
Before we dive into Jaleel White’s opinion, let’s first explore what it means to be considered one of the best Black TV shows. For many, the answer to this question is rooted in cultural representation, authenticity, and the way a show tackles issues important to the Black community. Shows like The Cosby Show and Good Times are often hailed for their portrayal of Black families and their nuanced approach to everyday challenges. But where does Family Matters fit into the conversation?
Cultural Representation in Black Sitcoms
One key factor in determining a show’s position among the best Black TV shows is how it represents Black culture. Shows like The Cosby Show set a precedent for portraying Black families in a positive light, showing well-rounded characters in a middle-class environment. In contrast, Family Matters was often more of a light-hearted comedy, focusing on the antics of Steve Urkel rather than on deeper social or cultural commentary. This could be one reason why it isn’t always placed in the same category as those shows that were more directly focused on representing Black life in America.
Jaleel White’s Insight: “If It’s Not a Hood Story, It’s Not a Black Story”
Jaleel White himself has been vocal about why Family Matters is not always celebrated in the same way as other Black shows. He has pointed out that the Black shows often considered the “best” are those that focus on more urban, or “hood” narratives, rather than those that present a suburban Black family dynamic. In his own words, if a show isn’t centered around a “hood story,” it’s often overlooked in terms of cultural significance.
The Suburban Black Family: A Different Kind of Narrative
Family Matters presented a more traditional, middle-class Black family—an African-American police officer (Carl Winslow), his wife (Harriette), and their children. While this was a refreshing take on Black family life, it didn’t focus on the struggles that many associate with urban Black families. Instead, the show embraced humor, slapstick comedy, and the lovable nerd, Steve Urkel. In a TV landscape where shows about more complex, gritty urban life dominated, Family Matters was seen as less “authentically Black” by some viewers.
Why the “Hood Story” Is Prioritized in Black TV Shows
Many of the most celebrated Black shows such as The Wire, Empire, and In the House have often dealt with themes of struggle, survival, and identity in urban settings. These stories are seen as more relatable to a wider audience, particularly those who grew up in similar environments. In contrast, Family Matters was less concerned with addressing the harsh realities of Black life in America, instead opting for more family-friendly humor and whimsical characters like Steve Urkel. As a result, some critics and viewers feel that it doesn’t hold the same cultural weight.
The Overlooked Genius of ‘Family Matters’
Despite not always making it to the top of the “best Black shows” lists, Family Matters was groundbreaking in many ways. It tackled important themes, albeit in a less direct manner, and it provided a platform for Black actors to showcase their talent in a sitcom format that wasn’t overly focused on race or struggle.
The Importance of Steve Urkel
Steve Urkel, portrayed by Jaleel White, became one of the most iconic characters of the 1990s. The nerdy, awkward teen with his high-pitched voice and memorable catchphrases like “Did I do that?” brought a unique type of character to the forefront. While Urkel wasn’t the typical representation of Blackness seen in many sitcoms, his universal appeal transcended race, and he became a cultural phenomenon. His character helped redefine the idea of what it meant to be “cool” or “nerdy,” offering a fresh take on what many had come to expect from Black TV characters.
Breaking Stereotypes with Humor
Another important aspect of Family Matters was its ability to break stereotypes. The Winslow family was loving, functional, and portrayed as a model Black family without resorting to tropes that were common in other sitcoms. The show didn’t solely rely on depicting Black struggle or hardship, which may have limited its appeal to certain audiences who viewed those elements as central to Black identity.
The Shift in Black TV: From Family Shows to Urban Dramas
It’s important to recognize how the TV landscape for Black actors and writers has evolved over time. In the early ’90s, shows like Family Matters, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper provided Black actors with opportunities to play characters who weren’t necessarily caught in the daily struggles of the Black community. These shows celebrated joy, humor, and love, offering an escape from the harder realities faced by many.
The Changing Tides of Black Television
As time went on, however, there was a shift in the types of Black television shows that gained attention. By the late ’90s and early 2000s, urban dramas like The Wire, Girlfriends, and Empire became more prominent. These shows embraced complex storylines dealing with issues like race, socio-economic struggle, and urban life, leading many to feel that shows like Family Matters were too simple or unrealistic by comparison. In essence, the focus moved from joyful family comedies to gritty, realistic depictions of Black experiences.
Legacy of ‘Family Matters’: Why It Still Matters
Despite not always being seen as one of the “best” Black shows, Family Matters still holds a special place in the hearts of fans and is an essential part of the history of Black television. The show’s success was built on its humor, heart, and the lovable characters that viewers could relate to.
The Show’s Cultural Impact
Family Matters helped define an era of Black TV that was about fun and family. It provided a safe space for viewers to enjoy wholesome comedy without needing to confront social issues head-on. The show remains a beloved classic, and Jaleel White’s portrayal of Steve Urkel continues to influence pop culture today.
Conclusion: Recognizing the Significance of ‘Family Matters’
While Family Matters may not always be seen as one of the “best” Black shows in terms of cultural representation or narrative depth, it is undeniable that it holds an important place in TV history. Jaleel White’s insight into the show’s place in Black television reveals how certain narratives and representations are prioritized over others. Nevertheless, Family Matters’ legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and has inspired many generations of viewers with its humor, warmth, and unforgettable characters.
FAQs
1. Why is Family Matters not considered one of the best Black shows?
Jaleel White suggests that shows about urban Black life and struggle often get more recognition, while Family Matters presented a more light-hearted, suburban portrayal of Black life.
2. How did Family Matters impact Black television?
Family Matters introduced audiences to a positive portrayal of Black families and characters, contributing to a shift in how Black sitcoms were viewed during the 90s.
3. Why was Steve Urkel so important to Family Matters?
Steve Urkel, played by Jaleel White, became the breakout character of the show. His nerdy, lovable persona became iconic, helping the show achieve immense popularity.
4. How did Family Matters break stereotypes of Black families on TV?
The Winslow family was portrayed as functional, loving, and middle-class, which was a departure from the more common depictions of Black families facing hardships.
5. Does Family Matters still have a cultural impact today?
Yes, Family Matters continues to influence pop culture, with Steve Urkel’s character remaining a recognizable figure in TV and internet memes.
