Bryton James, best known to Family Matters fans as Richie, has dropped a nostalgic bombshell, he’s actively developing an animated reboot of the classic TGIF sitcom. In a recent chat with Entertainment Weekly, James revealed that the project is already well into development and could be closer than fans think.
According to James, the idea is to reimagine the series by revisiting classic storylines from the original run, then modernizing them to connect with a new generation.
He explained that the plan is to “take the old episodes and kind of start from scratch,” bringing a fresh but familiar spin to the Winslow family saga. Even more exciting, James confirmed that he already has a production company lined up to finance the animated remake.
Perhaps the best part? He’s hoping to reunite the original cast, including Jaleel White, who made Urkel a household name. If all goes according to plan, the Family Matters animated revival could give longtime fans a big dose of ‘90s nostalgia while also introducing the Winslows, and of course, Urkel, to a whole new audience.
“It’s sitting in Warner Bros.’ hands right now,” the Young and the Restless actor told EW. “That plan is still kind of floating around out there, and I’m still trying to pursue it.”
Family Matters was more than just a sitcom, it was a defining piece of 1990s television and a true cultural touchstone. What began as a fairly straightforward family comedy soon found its identity thanks to the breakout success of Steve Urkel, the nerdy neighbor brought to life by Jaleel White.
With his oversized glasses, suspenders, and unforgettable catchphrase “Did I do that?”, Urkel quickly stole the spotlight and, in many ways, became the heartbeat of the show.
Once producers leaned into the character’s popularity and expanded his role, the series’ ratings skyrocketed. This shift helped Family Matters transform from a standard sitcom into one of the most beloved and most-watched shows of its time.
Across its nine-season run from 1989 to 1998, the show produced over 200 episodes, each cementing its place in television history.
As a cornerstone of ABC’s TGIF lineup, Family Matters stood proudly alongside other classics like Full House, Step by Step, and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Its mix of heartwarming family lessons and over-the-top comedic moments left a lasting mark on pop culture, ensuring its legacy continues to resonate with audiences old and new.