Is Reginald Veljohnson Gay? The Family Matters Actor’s Sexuality Revealed

Reginald VelJohnson, is an American actor known for his police officer roles. He is best known for playing Carl Winslow on “Family Matters,” a show that ran from 1989 to 1998, and Al Powell from the “Die Hard” films. VelJohnson was born to Eva and Dan VelJohnson on August 16, 1952, in New York City. At 13, his father left, leaving VelJohnson, his brother Barry, and their mother.

VelJohnson obtained a Fine Arts degree in Theatre from New York University where he joined Joseph Papp’s Black/Hispanic Shakespeare Company. In it, he rubbed shoulders with Carol Christine Hilaria Pounder and Morgan Freeman. His first breakthrough role was as Los Angeles Police Sergeant Al Powell in the first “Die Hard” film in 1988. Gene Hackman was originally cast for the role but was unavailable, so the production decided to hire VelJohnson, a relatively new and unknown actor at the time.

In 1989, VelJohnson was cast as the family patriarch, Carl Winslow, in “Family Matters.” The show was a spinoff of “Perfect Strangers,” where VelJohnson only appeared once. “Family Matters” was a success, and VelJohnson’s career was solidified. When the show ended in 1998, VelJohnson took up voice and guest star roles, appearing mostly as an authority figure or as part of the police force.

VelJohnson has devoted most of his life to his acting career and remains childless and unmarried, a far cry from his role as Winslow, who is a big family man. His solitary lifestyle has prompted people to ask: “Is Reginald VelJohnson gay?” Let’s take a closer look at VelJohnson’s personal life to find the answer ourselves.

VOTE: What is Reginald VelJohnson’s Sexuality?

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Reginald Veljohnson Is Still Single at 71

VelJohnson appeared in one of Hollywood’s most successful and iconic films and soon became a household name after solidifying his career by playing one of TV’s most recognizable characters. Though he has never played a homosexual character, people were quick to question his sexuality, wondering why the “Family Matters” family man didn’t have a family himself.

The veteran actor has not been spotted with a woman nor has he divulged any information about any past or present relationships. His co-stars have stated that VelJohnson is a professional, often heading home immediately after shoots, and always staying focused on his craft.

When asked about the actor’s sexuality, his “Family Matters” co-star, Darius McCarthy, had this to say:

Why is it even a question? I mean with any artist. What does their sexuality have to do with them entertaining you, then performing for you?”
Darius McCarthy, Comedy Hype interview, 2019

McCarthy added that media has always been used as a tool to control a narrative. According to him, media is often utilized when a person doesn’t like you behind the scenes, and the media is an effective character assassination tool.

Why Are People Questioning Reginald VelJohnson’s Sexuality?

For someone who had been in the industry for a considerable amount of time, many, including his co-stars, have wondered why VelJohnson remains a single man. This question has often led to more questions about his gender orientation. VelJohnson has maintained closed lips regarding the subject matter, but he has hinted at wanting to find a romantic partner.

In 1990, a November interview with the Hollywood star confirmed that he was looking for a romantic partner to spend his life with. He had just relocated to Hollywood and was living alone with his two cats.

It’s time for a woman. Playing Carl, I consider myself a daddy in training… It’s lonely sometimes.”
Reginald VelJohnson, November 1990 interview

He had also mentioned his co-star, JoMarie Payton, who played Harriette Winslow, his on-screen spouse on “Family Matters.” He recalled their working relationship and how he had always considered her a “special lady” in his life.

I just fell in love with her the first time I saw her. And she’s really wonderful to work with.”
Reginald VelJohnson, June 2022 interview

How Reginald Johnson Jr. Turned Into Reginald VelJohnson

VelJohnson went through several iterations of his stage name, but he eventually ended up with “VelJohnson.” Reports suggest that this may have resulted from a desire to distance himself from his namesake and absentee father who left him and his sibling with their mother.

When asked about his name change, VelJohnson simply stated he wanted to have a catchy and memorable name that would be recognized easily.

Reginald VelJohnson’s Long And Successful Career

VelJohnson has a long list of accomplishments in film and television. Aside from the “Die Hard” films and “Family Matters,” he has also starred in 30 films, and over 50 television shows, and has lent his voice to numerous video game characters.

When he was cast in the first “Die Hard” film, he had to move from New York to California for filming. After staying for nine months, he decided to stay in Tinseltown for good.

Some of VelJohnson’s most notable roles include “The Equalizer,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Crocodile Dundee,” “Ghostbusters,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” and “That’s So Raven.” The Amazon Animated show, “Invincible” has a high school named after VenJohnson, where he himself voices the principal.

In January 2023, VelJohnson started appearing in commercials for Progressive as a TV Dad, a parody of his Carl Winslow role. Aside from his professional relationships, little is known about the star.

According to reports, VelJohnson owns a $700,000 home in Los Angeles he purchased in 1992. Because he doesn’t live with anyone, VelJohnson often hosts parties and get-togethers.