Actor Jaleel White is reflecting on an unexpected lesson he learned from George Clooney during the height of their television careers.
While appearing on Sherri, White recalled spending time around Clooney when Family Matters and ER filmed on neighboring soundstages at the Warner Bros. lot. Although the actors starred in very different series, White said observing Clooney’s confidence and long-term outlook left a lasting impression on him.
Watching Success Up Close
White said Clooney carried himself with purpose long before becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
“He had intention,” White explained. “George knew exactly what he wanted.”
According to White, Clooney never appeared overwhelmed by the attention surrounding his growing fame. Instead, he projected quiet confidence and remained focused on building the career he envisioned.
White also shared a memorable story about the basketball court located between the Family Matters and ER stages. Cast and crew members frequently gathered there during breaks.
“We all used to play basketball,” White recalled.
When Clooney wanted to play, however, White joked that everyone naturally made room.
“It was George’s court,” White said. “When George wanted to play, it became George’s court.”
Rather than viewing the moment negatively, White said it demonstrated the confidence that Clooney carried without needing to announce it. The experience became an early lesson about believing in yourself and pursuing opportunities with intention.
Looking Back on a Defining Career
White rose to fame portraying Steve Urkel on Family Matters, a character originally intended for just one episode. The audience response transformed Urkel into the sitcom’s breakout star and one of television’s most recognizable characters.
Today, White has embraced the role that defined his early career. During his conversation with host Sherri Shepherd, he reflected on the lasting connection many viewers still feel toward the character.
“I hear it every day,” White said. “People tell me, ‘You were my childhood.’”
He added that hearing those comments has changed how he views his own journey.
“My response now is, ‘You were my childhood too.’”
White explained that the shared memories remind him television can create lifelong bonds between performers and audiences.
The actor has remained active in entertainment long after Family Matters ended. In addition to acting, he recently found success hosting the syndicated game show Flip Side and has continued reflecting on his career through interviews and his memoir, Growing Up Urkel.
Looking back, White said Clooney’s example reinforced the importance of having a clear vision instead of allowing fame to dictate personal decisions. While their careers ultimately followed different paths, White said watching Clooney navigate Hollywood with confidence provided a lesson he carried well beyond their days on neighboring television sets.