Los Angeles, CA — Bryton James, best known for his role as Richie Crawford on the beloved ’90s sitcom Family Matters, is spearheading an imaginative reboot: transforming the classic show into an animated series.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, James revealed he’s “got pretty far along” with the concept. He’s secured seed financing from a production company and reconnected with many of his former co-stars—including Jaleel White, who played Steve Urkel—to voice their iconic characters in this fresh reimagining.
The idea reflects a creative twist: rather than rehashing a live-action format, James wants to modernize original episodes within an animated framework. This approach would spotlight the Winslow family in contemporary settings, while preserving the humor and heart that made the original so memorable—particularly episodes featuring outrageous inventions and over-the-top scenarios. Plus, animation would simplify logistics, letting cast members record remotely and, as James joked, save White from needing to don Urkel’s trademark suspenders again.
Currently, the project remains “sitting in Warner Bros.’ hands,” with studio sources confirming awareness of James’s concept, but citing that no official development has begun yet.
Why Animation Makes Sense
Several factors make animation an ideal medium for this revival:
- Whimsical storytelling: Family Matters often pushed comedic boundaries—remember Urkel’s kitchen tornado? In animation, that kind of larger-than-life storytelling becomes seamless.
- Remote voice work: Without the need for a physical on-set reunion, cast members can contribute from anywhere, making participation easier.
- Creative modernization: The animated format allows James to “start from scratch for the new generation,” updating humor, tech references, and storytelling while staying true to the Winslows’ essence.
Cast Support and Legacy Considerations
James credits a 2018 cast reunion with rekindling relationships and momentum for the project. He remains in close contact with several cast members like Telma Hopkins, Darius McCrary, and Kellie Shanygne Williams. White is reportedly on board as well, although he once declined a traditional reboot modeled around Urkel’s life, instead pitching a semi-autobiographical idea.
Despite enthusiasm from many, Family Matters has a few missing players—Michelle Thomas and Rosetta LeNoire, who have passed away, are beloved parts of the original cast that can’t return.
Outlook
At this stage, the animated reboot remains a proposal awaiting studio momentum. Bryton James continues to champion the idea, envisioning a revival that honors the original while presenting something bold and new.
Whether Warner Bros. decides to greenlight the project could determine if the Winslows will once again find their way into our living rooms—this time through the vibrant world of animation.
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