Former child actor Jaleel White, best known for his role as Steve Urkel on the ‘90s sitcom “Family Matters,” is opening up about the dark side of kids TV in his upcoming memoir, “Growing Up Urkel.”
In the wake of the explosive docuseries, “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV,” White is shedding light on the alleged abuse and exploitation that some child actors faced, drawing parallels to the #MeToo movement.
White credits his mother, Gail, who also served as his manager, for protecting him from the pitfalls of fame. He recalls how she was a “helicopter mom” who set strict boundaries and curfews to keep him safe from predators in the industry.
Reflecting on his own experience, White emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and protection in the entertainment industry. He contrasts his upbringing with that of other child actors who were given too much freedom and lacked proper supervision.
Despite his success as a child star, White’s daughter, Samaya, has no interest in following in his footsteps. He is grateful for her decision and has no desire to push her into show business.
With “Growing Up Urkel,” White hopes to give readers a glimpse behind the curtain of his life beyond the iconic character of Steve Urkel. The memoir is now available for pre-order on JaleelWhite.com, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of growing up in the spotlight.