10 Breakout TV Characters Who Went From Bit Parts To Series Regulars
5. Steve Urkel (Family Matters)
Famous for his role as suspender-snapping Steve Urkel on Family Matters, Jaleel Ahmed White was slated as a one-episode-only role. However, Laura Windslow’s love-sick neighbor's popularity did not go unnoticed, as the off-putting nerd sent ratings skyrocketing—saving the show, which was headed towards cancellation due to its mediocre viewership.
Capitalizing on Steve’s social buzz, show producers signed Jaleel Ahmed White as a regular cast member from season 2 onwards. Technically, White had two roles. He also played a “cool” version of himself, known as Stefan Urquelle, in Season 5, when he tried transforming his DNA to become more appealing in his unrequited love’s eyes. Later in the season, Urkel tweaked and perfected the formula, finally grabbing the attention of Laura, with his new-found good looks and charm.
Cinching his pants and a starring role, Jaleel Ahmed White brought the high-pitched and clumsy geek to life, providing pop culture with phrases like "I've fallen and I can't get up!” and “Did I do that?” Steve Urkel, whose running gags and goofy antics made for endless storylines, became Family Matters' central fixture - and part of pop-culture history.