The beloved 90s sitcom “Family Matters,” a staple of TGIF and a cultural touchstone for a generation, is reportedly getting a fresh, animated makeover.
While details are still emerging, the prospect of seeing the Winslow family and their iconic neighbor, Steve Urkel, return to our screens in cartoon form is sparking a mixture of excitement and nostalgic curiosity.
“Family Matters” alum Bryton James recently revealed he “got pretty far along” on an idea to revive the classic sitcom. He stated it would be in a new format featuring original cast members like star Jaleel White.
Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, the actor — who portrayed youngster Richie Crawford from Seasons 2 through 9 — said he’s “had an idea to take the show and turn it into an animated series.”
He said it could be done by “taking the old episodes and modernizing them and kind of starting from scratch for the new generation.”
“It’s sitting in Warner Bros.’ hands right now,” the Emmy winner told the outlet. “That plan is still kind of floating around out there, and I’m still trying to pursue it.” Per EW, a source familiar with Warner Bros. Animation said the company is aware of the project but that it has not moved beyond James’ interest.
Family Matters entertained audiences for nine seasons
Airing from 1989 through 1998 on ABC and later CBS, and which was spun off from “Perfect Strangers”, “Family Matters” centered on the Winslows, a middle-class Black family living in Chicago.
“Family Matters” charmed audiences with its heartwarming portrayal of a middle-class Black family. Each episode showed them navigating the ups and downs of everyday life.
The show tackled relatable themes of family values, friendship, and social issues. It also showcased the unforgettable antics of the well-meaning but perpetually clumsy Steve Urkel.
A new format could work for the storied franchise
The idea of rebooting a classic sitcom as an animated series is not entirely new. Several beloved shows have received this treatment, often appealing to both original fans and a new generation of viewers.
Bel-Air, soon entering its fourth season, has been a successful reboot from 90s hit “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” The dramatic adaptation is proof a show can return with a fresh twist, attracting new and established fans.
Animation offers a unique opportunity to reimagine characters and scenarios. It offers a heightened sense of visual humor and imaginative storytelling possibilities.
While an official announcement regarding the animation style, voice cast, and plotlines is eagerly awaited, speculation is already high among fans.
Animation format could heighten storytelling
An animated format could offer a chance to update Steve Urkel while retaining his endearing qualities. It could perhaps focus more on his intelligence and inventive spirit.
The potential for exploring new storylines and expanding the “Family Matters” universe in animation is vast.
Perhaps we could see more of Urkel’s family, travel to fantastical locations with his inventions, or delve deeper into the inner lives of the Winslow children as they navigate the challenges of adolescence.
The animated format could also allow for creative visual gags and slapstick humor that were limited in the live-action show.
“Family Matters” reboot would be highly anticipated
Of course, any reboot of a beloved classic faces the challenge of living up to the original’s legacy. Fans will undoubtedly have high and potentially unreasonable expectations.
The success of the reboot will likely depend on its ability to balance nostalgia with fresh and engaging storytelling.
As news about the animated “Family Matters” continues to emerge, the Winslow family and their unforgettable neighbor may be poised to make a comeback in a whole new and exciting way.