Jaleel White Reminisces About Fun Food Fights on the Set of ‘Family Matters’
Jaleel White, famously known for his role as Steve Urkel on the hit show ‘Family Matters,’ recently shared some behind-the-scenes stories from the beloved 90s TV series. At the 90s Con 2025 event in Hartford, Conn., White, along with other iconic stars like Rider Strong, Will Friedle, and Soleil Moon Frye, came together for a panel to talk about their time on the shows that shaped a generation.
During the panel, moderated by Sabrina the Teenage Witch alum Jenna Leigh Green, White fondly recalled some memorable moments from his time on ‘Family Matters.’ Specifically, he shared anecdotes about the epic food fights that took place on set, much to the delight of fans in attendance. The camaraderie and fun atmosphere behind the scenes were evident as White detailed the hilarious events that unfolded during filming.
One of the standout moments White reminisced about was a food fight scene in the episode ‘Baker’s Dozen.’ Initially not included in the scene, White convinced the producers to let him participate, only to find himself at the receiving end of a barrage of pies from the Winslow family. Despite the unexpected turn of events, White embraced the chaos and laughter that ensued, making it a memorable experience for both himself and the audience.
As the show progressed, another opportunity for a food fight arose, and this time, Urkel got his sweet revenge. White described how the cast and crew, including the writers and producers, enthusiastically got involved in the food fight, creating a joyful and jovial atmosphere on set. The sense of unity and playfulness among the team members translated into a fun and entertaining scene for viewers of the show.
White’s reflections on these light-hearted moments shed a positive light on the hard work and dedication that went into creating a successful show like ‘Family Matters.’ The bond shared by the cast and crew, as seen through their playful interactions and shared laughter, contributed to the show’s enduring appeal and resonance with audiences across generations.
The panel discussion also touched upon the significance of the 90s era in television, particularly with reference to iconic programming blocks like ABC’s “TGIF.” Producer Jim Janicek revealed that the acronym, often thought to stand for “Thank God It’s Friday,” actually meant “Thank Goodness It’s Funny,” highlighting the focus on humour and entertainment in the beloved Friday night line-up.
Overall, the reunion of stars from popular 90s shows at events like 90s Con serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans and a heartwarming gathering for the actors who brought these characters to life. The shared experiences and stories shared by White and his fellow cast members offer a glimpse into the camaraderie and friendship that defined the golden era of television in the 90s.
As the event continues to bring together actors and fans to celebrate the cultural impact of these classic shows, it serves as a reminder of the lasting legacy left behind by beloved series like ‘Family Matters’ and the talented individuals who brought them to life. The joy and camaraderie shared by the cast members at events like 90s Con are a testament to the enduring magic of 90s television and its enduring appeal to audiences of all ages.
In conclusion, Jaleel White’s recollections of the fun food fights on the set of ‘Family Matters’ offer a glimpse into the playful and enjoyable moments that made the show a cherished part of 90s television history. Through his storytelling, White brings to life the camaraderie and laughter that defined the behind-the-scenes experience of filming a beloved sitcom, creating lasting memories for fans and actors alike.