Former 'Family Matters' Star Jailed for Unpaid $52,788 Child Support

According to recent reports, former child actor Jaleel White, known for his role as Eddie on the popular 1990s sitcom 'Family Matters', has found himself in legal trouble once again. On October 5, 2025, White was arrested by United States border patrol on a "fugitive arrest" warrant.

The arrest stems from an outstanding child support debt that has been accumulating since March 2019. Records show White owes a staggering $52,788.04 in unpaid child support payments. This is not the first time White has faced such issues, as he was previously arrested in 2015 for failing to pay child support.

In a candid reflection, White has opened up about the challenges of being a father, especially as a Black man. "It brought a lot of anguish. My children man. It's hard for a man to be a father in this country, especially let alone I hate to say this ... [when] you're a Black man you have double the problems," he confessed.

White remains in jail in San Diego, as he is "not eligible for release" or bail according to the records. His legal troubles have clearly taken a toll on his mental health, with the actor admitting that he has never really experienced bouts of depression until now. Despite his success on 'Family Matters', White's personal life has been marred by these ongoing child support issues.