Unnecessary rumors and questions about personal lives, sexual preferences, and even death hoaxes are one of the drawbacks of working in the entertainment industry. Reginald VelJohnson, a veteran actor and comedian, experienced the same thing.
VelJohnson, best known for his role as Carl Winslow in Family Matters, has frequently made headlines for his sexuality. People believe he’s gay, and they have reason to think so.
Quick Facts
| Real name | Reginald VelJohnson |
| Gender | Male |
| Age | 71 |
| Date of birth | August 16, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Queens, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Hometown | Not known |
| Profession | Actor |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches |
| Weight | Not known |
| Interest | Not known |
| Zodiac sign | Leo |
| Marital status | Unmarried |
| University | Not known |
| Parents | Not known |
| Siblings | Not known |
| Wife | None |
| Girlfriend | Not known |
| Children | None |
| Net worth | $5 million |
VelJohnson’s TV Son Supported His Father’s Sexuality Secrecy
An actor’s worth is determined by how well they portray a character, to the point where viewers forget they are watching a performance. The same is true for VelJohnson. Fans all over the world adore his character, Winslow. Even when an interview has nothing to do with him, people find ways to learn more about the famous TV dad.
When VelJohnson’s TV son, Darius McCrary, sat down with the Comedy Hype to talk about the show, he was asked if VelJohnson’s sexuality was ever brought up during his time on Family Matters. Without hesitation, the actor stated that he has never understood why people are bothered by someone’s personal choice and sexuality.
Not only that, but McCrary stated that he is not a fan of the media controlling the portrayal of a person and the audience’s viewpoint.
A rumored romance with James Avery
While VelJohnson was nailing the role of Winslow on Family Matters, another actor, James Avery, was winging it as Uncle Phil on Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. They were not only at the pinnacle of their careers but they were also named the top three closeted black actors. Their inclusion on the latter list was primarily due to rumors of a secret relationship.
Yes, you read that correctly. Rumors about TV dads Winslow and Philip Banks dating were rife at the time. And in 2014, when Uncle Phil showed up on the set of Family Matters to surprise Winslow, it fueled the fire even more.
When Avery got married, the gossip died down. Some believe it was an open secret, while others debated their relationship, but both actors ignored any rumors and chose to remain silent. Unfortunately, the gifted actor died in 2014 due to complications from open-heart surgery.
VelJohnson was a victim of a death ruse.
What could be worse than having your sexuality constantly called into question? A death ruse! VelJohnson died in February 2017 of a heart attack, according to reports. He was flying from London to Los Angeles when paramedics removed him from the plane and immediately transported him to a nearby hospital to be treated for cardiac arrest.
All of this was proven to be a hoax, as the actor is still alive and well. On the 30th anniversary of Family Matters, he spoke to TV One TV about how special the iconic series was.
