Yes, I met her at a friend's house in Los Angeles in the 90s. She was so sweet and down to earth, and it seemed like only a month after I met her she passed away. Such a loss for her friends and family and the industry. She was very beautiful.
@@osaji922 he sure did. I remember seeing him get very emotional about her and her passing. He truly loved her and any interview he does when he discuss her you can see the sadness on his face and hear the sadness in his voice. They had a genuine friendship and while he lives his life he still struggles with her passing. I hope he find peace because there is still so much pain but I respect him because he let her name and legacy live on.
He did if you saw the whole segment of the show when it aired. He asked one of the producers for a tissue. A lot of people get emotional when Michelle's name comes up. Likewise with Malcolm Jamal Warner.
I had the biggest crush on Myra when "Family Matters" was putting out new episodes. I even got mad at Steve Urkel for continuing to carry the torch for Laura. I remember thinking, "You're smart enough to build robots and cloning machines, yet you can't see a good thing when you have it?"
That sentiment was shared by young men across this country. Michelle was disarmingly beautiful but truly seemed almost angelic in the way she carried herself. Malcolm Jamal Warner has spoken like that about her, Jaleel White has, the cast members on The Young and the Restless her last major acting role...same thing. No one has ever had less than glowing things to say about her. And I'm not surprised. Her aura was just...different.
@@josephclegg3562 she sure was she was sexy ass fuck and loved Steve for who he was I was mad 😠at Steve how he rejected her when she was way better looking then Laura matter of fact she was the sexiest woman on the show with Maxine being a close second
@Underground Guy No, there's plenty of reason to compare them, because they both played Steve's love interests.. The reason Laura's character gets so much hate is because she was a B to Steve... who was a sweet boy... Myra loved him and accepted him for who he was, not Laura. If the actresses switched roles, the one who plays Myra will always get more love... especially from us nerds who can identify with Steve, because we never got the hot girl in HS, either.
"Michelle had the opportunity to sale her soul to the Devil to climb a little faster...and she just wasn't that girl." She would rather be a waiter than sale her soul. She was/is a virtuous woman. Rest in Paradise.
That's what I was thinking. Ultimately alot of these famous people appear to be not talented at all. That they would sell their soul to be rich and famous. Just the way Jaleel says it with truth, seems like he is trying to expose the darkside of all this.
That really speaks volumes about her as a person. Honest, hard working people are hard to find. She'd rather work as a waitress to make ends meet than sell herself out for the money and career opportunity.
"Michele Thomas had many opportunities to sell her soul to the devil in order to climb the ladder. But, she never did. She just wasn't that girl". One could easily tell that Jaleel White isn't that guy either. He's always on the verge of tears when he talks about her.
She was a special lady and was so smart never did all sorts of debauchery avoided all Vice and Michelle always took care for Jaleel like her own little brother and anyone who has met her will say the same the most kindest warm hearted friendliest respectful lady that nobody of todays world can compare her vivacity
@Maple Leaf Hitman Very applicable use of the word 'vivacity', she had it. I personally haven't run across many I'd use that word for & we can apply it to an individual we've just seen on tv. I can only imagine that vivacity in person, must be an experience & highly impactful, hence Jaleel's emotional response to her memory 20 years later.
@@anthonycarlisle6184 thanks that’s was she is, a zestful lovable virtuous damsel that everyone loved to be around with even the show she was on the audience really loved her and her impact is still engraved in the hearts of many.
I met her once. I had to be about 14 or 15. I was at a youth conference for teens who celebrated living a drug free life style. I think we were checking into our hotel and we met her in the lobby. We were like that's Michelle! She smiled and waved at us. I asked if she would take a picture with me and she said ok. We stood close to one another and I saw how petite she was standing next to me. She was so gracious and beautiful. I'll never forget that!
Yes... Didn’t Sell Her Soul To The Devil To Climb A Little Faster. Said so matter of factly . Well stated. Not to be made all spooky, grand and Illuminati- ish. Could just be saying she kept her legs closed. End of story.
@@klaybiggins4040 it don't have to be that when he say sell her soul it can literally mean she will do anything on or off camera for fame basically giving Hollywood control of her life like a puppet
I love hearing him speak. He's a very intelligent person and he still carries that aura of the 90s with him. I miss those times and really wish I could go back..
@@tilabryant5591 facts T. Idk where that guy heard that heard from unless it was from his dreams or something. Nowhere out there said that Jaleel and Malcolm were fighting over her. 🤦🏾♂️
Michelle did what she had to do to make a living after Family Matters. I commend her for that. Geoffrey Owens did the same thing. She still did some acting after that, but I'm glad she chose not to play Hollywood's game and stand on principle.
Yes, I remember when she was cast on The Young and The Restless opposite Shemar Moore before she passed. She was wonderful in her role. R.I.P. Michelle ❤🙏🏾
There's nothing wrong with busting tables at a fast food restaurant or bagging groceries at a grocery store. You don't think about the job as long as you are getting paid.
@Cool Breeze I'm not saying anything to you troll. Maybe you should pick up a book every now and then. Maybe you would know by now that we all originated from Africa!
They cut off the first part of the clip. He gets choked up and says, "I literally cannot say her name or I'll cry." They have to bring him a tissue before he keeps going. Very moving moment.
It really was. It came on today at 11:00 a.m. They showed the first part and I was crying with him. It's good that she made a great impact on Jaleel and Malcolm. Where was Malcolm when she worked at the restaurant? I thought they were getting married.
@@shenequakimbro5146 They broke up in '94, so they weren't together by then. Family Matters ended in '98. That said, it sounds like they split on good terms. Malcolm flew to New York to be with her in her final moments in '98. He was at her bedside the day before she died. "'When I saw her,' [Malcolm told People magazine], 'I said, "Elephant juice." She smiled and said, "Elephant juice."'" ("Elephant juice" looks like "I love you" when you mouth the words.) This is from People magazine, "Forever Young," January 11, 1999.
Michelle Thomas was So Beautiful inside and out. I loved her as Myra on Family Matters and Justine on the Cosby show. She was a great Actress. RIP Michelle Thomas 🕊 you’ll never be forgotten ❤️
@@myckalaross8973 facts lol 😂👍 I like what Cosby did at the end had to mix up all that concoction and then he put it on his head.... Respect your woman. Lol 😂
I always thought Steve and Myra should have been together in the end. Even hearing this about Michelle Thomas the writer's of the show missed a huge opportunity with Michelle Thomas. The show should have been about moving past a crush and finding your true self, and the person who really loves you for who your are not because you had to reinvent yourself to be loved.
What’s crazy is that you didn’t have to know her. You could see through her characters and through her eyes to see how incredible she was. We’d watch her every Friday and loved watching her bubbly personality shine and her comic genius. Still today, when I see something about her, my heart sinks just like the day I found out about her passing.
Jaleel Reminds me of the way the late Marvin Gaye would talk about the late Tammi Terrell always so Loving and Respectful like a Big Brother/Younger Sister Vibe
They way Jaleel talks about Michelle, Michelle seemed like the type of person everyone needed. She seemed like the person, that accepted ur strengths and weaknesses.
Wow... And this is the reality for a lot of actors. I feel so sad for them when people bash them for having regular jobs and call them "failures" for simply providing for their families.
@@KIMKRIS1 That's true but back then and earlier, there was always a myth that because you're on television or in music, you're able to buy your momma a house, have maids and butlers at your beck and call and have a house big as a mall. We're finding out that this isn't always the case.
Because of the people who said that are Arrogant but look at Hollywood industry yet they kill themselves cause they are all slaves yeah they may become billionaires but look at their mental state “total destruction” they’re treated like shit alcohol drug abuse more sexual promiscuities in every show or film scenes they’re treated like animals the paparazzi chasing them by just leaving one foot away from your house that you have to live with a bodyguard all your life and live in the Californian desert its I don’t want to browbeat here but it’s true better off doing odd jobs rather getting their dignity taken away and Michelle was very very smart she was aware of this, she liked people and she is a comedian and wanted to give people a laugh for the show she has self respect she basically wanted to live a simple normal life not the chaotic world of Hollywood . ❤️ Michelle 😇
She was so beautiful and had the sweetest voice. I'll never forget her and her smile. She seemed so warm and kind. I bet she's the best angel in heaven.
She seemed and was always a beautiful soul. R.IP. Glad Malcom and Jaleel speak volumes of how good she was. Thank you gentlemen for keeping her alive in our thoughts.
Thank you for being such a huge part of all of the amazing memories that came along with the 90's. It's probably the only reason some of us are still here, because we know that wholesome and hearty living does exist somewhere, because we lived through it in the 80's and 90's
A brilliant sit down with one Americas greatest icons. Jaleel is such a real person. You can see and feel the emotion he has for the memories he associates to the people he cares about and that's profound
It’s so sad that actors have to feel bad about working 9-5 in between jobs. Also I feel like it should be a bigger fund or bigger royalties similar to Unemployment for actors in between gigs. Also studios should be required to give actors a lump sum when a show end based off all episodes,hours and appearance to actors.
@@tiffanyc8307 I can't tell if this is a joke or not, but actors do have a union. It's called SAG-AFTRA and yes union actors are entitled to royalities but some jobs pay bigger than most. Really, most actors are broke. There's only like the top 1 percent that are rich and famous.
This episode had almost brought me in tears when he talked about his late castmate/friend/actress Michelle Thomas!! I love how he thinks and talks about her!! There won't be a reunion without her presence!! Rest In Paradise Ms. Michelle Thomas❤❤❤
This show taught me what most guys needed to know. A nerdy neighbor with the intellect of a college scholar, spending all of his days chasing a beautiful woman with NO interest in him whatsoever. It hurt even more when he turned into Stefan and THEN she wanted him, while he was simultaneously turning down his dorky friends who WAS interested in him. Be yourself. Ignore what others think of you. 10 fingers, 10 toes, mind, body, and soul. We are ALL the same.
She was perfection! One of the most beautiful smiles on tv EVER !! She is truly missed! I spent most of my life trying to find a woman that loves me the way Myra loved Steve LOL Long Live Michelle Myra Thomas !
I'm sure "a lot of opportunities to sell her soul to the Devil to start climbing a little faster" means casting couch/Weinstein situations. The actors who go along with that stuff sometimes get ahead and we see them on the big screen...actors who refuse usually disappear into obscurity. This happens way too often - to women *and* men in the industry. I'm glad we're taking a moment here to remember her; she didn't deserve obscurity.
I’m sure that’s a part of it but I’m sure he means literally selling her soul to the devil. This world is more spiritual than you think....... even Katy Perry said it in an interview light heartedly. Yet she was telling the truth..... and tried to down play it
There is nothing wrong with waiting tables especially when a tv show is on hiatus or when the season is over. Being an actor is a tough profession and you won't always have a job. I wish she knew that 😔🙏rip
Thank you for sharing this candid interview Jaleel; I've always loved Family Matters and every actor. This is the first I've heard of Michelle's illness and passing. May she RIP.
She was so vibrant and wonderful on that show, and from everything I’ve read she was also that way in her life. She was lost so tragically young. I’ve no doubt she’d have gone on to give great performances in a multitude of roles.
Absolutely, totally and completely beautiful, inside and out.. Im sorry Mama, I didn't know ur story, now I do, how could I ever forget ur beautiful smile, now I never will...❤❤❤
@@delk127 It's called making a correlation. It how you measure things to make them have something to do with one another. True not knowing standard English, Math,or Science which shows how to correlate between any variables
Such a rare jewel in today's age of loss integrity. Jaleel really has seen it all man... like frfr. He's seen all sides of the industry and literally lived to tell about it.
May She continue to rest in Peace. I remember when I found out she passed away. I was so heart broken . Im glad ppl have good memories about her. That will live on
I love this show. Grew up watching it and the characters/actors were amazing. So sad she passed away. I think all these actors were so innocent and good people that they didn't have the need to desire more ambitious to peruse a life long career in Hollywood, most 80s and 90s show actors were simple people but very talented.
i remember when Theo from 92.3 the beat here in Southern Cali ( they're no longer on air ) broke the news about her passin, a lot of people were hurt an that broadcaster cried so hard u couldn't help but cry also
We were watching a family matters rerun in Toronto summer of 1999 at a restaurant when Myra appeared everyone including the waiters were giving her a standing ovation like tears shed and so many napkins were used she is so loved even Canada
So sad how the heartbreak hasn’t gone away for Jaleel. I love how he was so close with Michelle and says all these amazing things about her! Gone way too soon, she had an amazing smile 😊
Michelle Thomas was a real treasure. She was a part of not one, but two of my favorite shows. The Cosby Show as Justine, and of course, Family Matters as Myra. Super talented and gone way too soon. RIP.
Good video, as is this whole series of interviews with Jaleel White. Although personally, I think a more appropriate title for this video would be the loss of Jaleel White's and Michelle Thomas's innocence. :)
True Story. In the 90s when I was a dancer on Soul Train and she was a guest host, I actually got the chance to dance with her and she was actually really nice and a truly big smile. I wish I could find that episode.
Michelle Thomas, Aaliyah and Lisa Left eye Lopez was it for me. It’s in the eyes. It something about those eyes that shows you the purity of their soul. R.I.P to you all.
She will forever be a legend and I personally felt like she would have got in urban black community with amazing talent I can only Imagine the roles she would get God bless her I remember when she past it just didn't feel real still sometimes doesn't
Even though I never had the pleasure to meet her, I find myself missing Michelle. I feel like that says something about the kind of unique, incredible spirit she was.
Myra Boutros Boutros Monkhouse. I loved her. I agree so many people are willing to do what ever it takes to make it big and in the end you're used up and discarded for the next shiny toy that is willing to do even more than you that is most likely younger.
I remember michelle on the young and the restless she was a great singer. She sang Natalie cole's song inseparable on y&r and it was perfect. Michelle is one of the most beautiful women i'd seen on tv. I still miss Michelle. She was a great actress.
I loved how he said Ms Thomas wasn't that girl to sell her soul .she was a real Gem .im glad today we have black women and black men in power all the devils are getting canceled , cancel culture is not all bad lol she is part of a legacy of women who did the right thing and never gave into the slim jerks of the past .she worked ,had her pride and her beautiful soul was still pure she will never be forgotten RIP
It's always a great thing to have had someone important to you in your life. Losing that person can impact you in a way you never thought possible or even are unaware of. Some people turn to helping people out more while others begin a cycle of self destruction. It's how you use the memory of that person that determines if that person can live on through you. What did you learn and take as yours from them? How they live on through you is the greatest honor of their memory that you can give to the world!
I had SUCH a big crush on Myra. Finally, a woman who sees a nerd for who he is and accepts him wholeheartedly. She didn’t need nor want him to change at all unlike Laura. Still miss her even now. 😩😫
I still couldn’t understand why Urkel still fondled for Laura and rejected Myra for so long and yet she still wanted him badly, look at her patience unlike Laura who didn’t give a rats ass if Steve was lost in a snake infested forest
It's sad how these networks want nothing to do with you after you have made them so much money. Have a back up career cause acting doesn't always pay the Bills.
She was so beautiful... My first celebrity crush. I knew her first as justine from the cosby show. I walked around singin the “justine justine” song for days when i first heard it. I didn’t know she passed til adulthood... broke my heart.
@@QueenK88 I don't think you understood what I meant cause that's actually a bad thing. We're not seeing the actors as people when they're not acting because of the media.
Great insight into the real life of Michelle Thomas, beyond the characters she played. Her highs, and lows, but ultimately she is an example of a great human being, because in spite of the obstacles in her path. She did her best to keep moving forward. Plus, like bruce Lee said: the key to immortality is living a life worth remembering. I believe Michelle Thomas lived a life worth remembering, not only because of her acting career, but also because she truly was a great person according to everyone that knew her, met her, as well as her fans showing her love too. I enjoyed listening to jaleel white reminiscing about Michelle Thomas, and telling us what a caring, and virtuous person she was, and how she didn't burden others with her troubles. Not many people are like her. As they say: the good ones die young. Michelle Thomas was certainly one of those good people. 😊
Everyone who speaks on this woman loves her. She's a beautiful spirit.
facts you could honestly feel that through her with work
Yes, I met her at a friend's house in Los Angeles in the 90s. She was so sweet and down to earth, and it seemed like only a month after I met her she passed away. Such a loss for her friends and family and the industry. She was very beautiful.
She was fine as hell. SIP 🙏🏾
@@flygenyus2186 I miss her smile and big 🥥👀
She will always be remembered for Justine Phillips on The Cosby Show and Myra Monkhouse on Family Matters.
Jaleel White kinda sounds like he is on the verge of crying when talking about Michelle Thomas.
He did when he was on that psychic's show and the psychic started talking about her.
@@osaji922 he sure did. I remember seeing him get very emotional about her and her passing. He truly loved her and any interview he does when he discuss her you can see the sadness on his face and hear the sadness in his voice. They had a genuine friendship and while he lives his life he still struggles with her passing. I hope he find peace because there is still so much pain but I respect him because he let her name and legacy live on.
He did if you saw the whole segment of the show when it aired. He asked one of the producers for a tissue. A lot of people get emotional when Michelle's name comes up. Likewise with Malcolm Jamal Warner.
You can her his heart ache when he talks about her.
He said whenever he starts taking about her he starts to cry. I know the feeling .
I had the biggest crush on Myra when "Family Matters" was putting out new episodes. I even got mad at Steve Urkel for continuing to carry the torch for Laura. I remember thinking, "You're smart enough to build robots and cloning machines, yet you can't see a good thing when you have it?"
Michelle Thomas(Myra)was finer than Kellie Shanygne Williams(Laura), Cherie Johnson(Maxine), and Tammi Townsend(Greta).
That sentiment was shared by young men across this country. Michelle was disarmingly beautiful but truly seemed almost angelic in the way she carried herself. Malcolm Jamal Warner has spoken like that about her, Jaleel White has, the cast members on The Young and the Restless her last major acting role...same thing. No one has ever had less than glowing things to say about her. And I'm not surprised. Her aura was just...different.
@@josephclegg3562 she sure was she was sexy ass fuck and loved Steve for who he was I was mad 😠at Steve how he rejected her when she was way better looking then Laura matter of fact she was the sexiest woman on the show with Maxine being a close second
I was crushing on her since she was Theo's girlfriend, Justine, on The Cosby Show.
@Underground Guy No, there's plenty of reason to compare them, because they both played Steve's love interests.. The reason Laura's character gets so much hate is because she was a B to Steve... who was a sweet boy... Myra loved him and accepted him for who he was, not Laura. If the actresses switched roles, the one who plays Myra will always get more love... especially from us nerds who can identify with Steve, because we never got the hot girl in HS, either.
"Michelle had the opportunity to sale her soul to the Devil to climb a little faster...and she just wasn't that girl." She would rather be a waiter than sale her soul. She was/is a virtuous woman. Rest in Paradise.
*sell
That's what I was thinking. Ultimately alot of these famous people appear to be not talented at all. That they would sell their soul to be rich and famous.
Just the way Jaleel says it with truth, seems like he is trying to expose the darkside of all this.
I caught that too... Them bastards are real people eaters
That really speaks volumes about her as a person. Honest, hard working people are hard to find. She'd rather work as a waitress to make ends meet than sell herself out for the money and career opportunity.
She wasn't willing to sleep her way to the top. That's what he means.
"Michele Thomas had many opportunities to sell her soul to the devil in order to climb the ladder. But, she never did. She just wasn't that girl". One could easily tell that Jaleel White isn't that guy either. He's always on the verge of tears when he talks about her.
She was a special lady and was so smart never did all sorts of debauchery avoided all Vice and Michelle always took care for Jaleel like her own little brother and anyone who has met her will say the same the most kindest warm hearted friendliest respectful lady that nobody of todays world can compare her vivacity
@Maple Leaf Hitman
Very applicable use of the word 'vivacity', she had it. I personally haven't run across many I'd use that word for & we can apply it to an individual we've just seen on tv. I can only imagine that vivacity in person, must be an experience & highly impactful, hence Jaleel's emotional response to her memory 20 years later.
@@anthonycarlisle6184 thanks that’s was she is, a zestful lovable virtuous damsel that everyone loved to be around with even the show she was on the audience really loved her and her impact is still engraved in the hearts of many.
Truth Amen
And some people take that as a toss away line. Lots of exposing going on about the satantic cults in Hollywood.
Sounds like he really really misses her alot 😔
Jaleel and Michelle were very close.
We all do.
Of course he does
Sounds like she had a beautiful spirit.
She was the Amy Rose to his Sonic.
I met her once. I had to be about 14 or 15. I was at a youth conference for teens who celebrated living a drug free life style. I think we were checking into our hotel and we met her in the lobby. We were like that's Michelle! She smiled and waved at us. I asked if she would take a picture with me and she said ok. We stood close to one another and I saw how petite she was standing next to me. She was so gracious and beautiful. I'll never forget that!
Do you still have the picture?
@@edennegxx Hi I wish.
I lost a lot of keepsakes when I moved years ago.
I love this! What hotel was it, do you remember?
The most adorable 5 foot nothing sonsy
That's a blessing
He stated she didn't sell her soul. He's that open and it's good to hear
Yeah! "The whole world lies in the power of the wicked one!"
You heard too 💯💯💯 reasons why I changed my mind about being an actor
Yes... Didn’t Sell Her Soul To The Devil To Climb A Little Faster. Said so matter of factly . Well stated. Not to be made all spooky, grand and Illuminati- ish. Could just be saying she kept her legs closed. End of story.
@@klaybiggins4040 i think thats what he meant. People will take it as illuminati though
@@klaybiggins4040 it don't have to be that when he say sell her soul it can literally mean she will do anything on or off camera for fame basically giving Hollywood control of her life like a puppet
I love hearing him speak. He's a very intelligent person and he still carries that aura of the 90s with him. I miss those times and really wish I could go back..
You and I both
Me too simpler times we took for granted.
@@AlrickCollinsJr No doubt✊🏾
@@tyroneaugustine229 I most definitely miss those simpler times brotha🙏🏾
The best times
When she passed away she had her dignity rip Michelle Thomas 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
I remember when she hosted an episode of Soul Train.
Justine on The Cosby show
@@juliusjujusurratt9568 I know right lol. "🎶🎵Justine Justine 🎶🎵" 😏.
@@hostilemgtow603 Lol yup lol 😂 the blues lol
@@juliusjujusurratt9568 LOL 😎😉
Out of everybody on that show, you could OBVIOUSLY tell that Jaleel and Michelle were the closest. I could tell that he misses her a lot. 🙏🏾🥲
I heard that Jaleel and Malcolm were at odds over Michelle, because both were trying to date her.
@@josephclegg3562 I’ve heard everything but that. Looking at they relationship, her and Jaleel were like brother and sister
Ppl always making up stuff🙄
@@tilabryant5591 facts T. Idk where that guy heard that heard from unless it was from his dreams or something. Nowhere out there said that Jaleel and Malcolm were fighting over her. 🤦🏾♂️
@@josephclegg3562 malcolm was engaged to her lol, they literally been together since the 80s.
Michelle did what she had to do to make a living after Family Matters. I commend her for that. Geoffrey Owens did the same thing. She still did some acting after that, but I'm glad she chose not to play Hollywood's game and stand on principle.
Yes, I remember when she was cast on The Young and The Restless opposite Shemar Moore before she passed. She was wonderful in her role. R.I.P. Michelle ❤🙏🏾
There's nothing wrong with busting tables at a fast food restaurant or bagging groceries at a grocery store. You don't think about the job as long as you are getting paid.
Geoffrey Owens is on Tyler Perry’s The Haves and The Haves Nots now.
Me too. I know it had to be a difficult financial shift, but she stood on her morals/principles. 💕💕💕
She is rich beyond belief in the kingdom of heaven, he wasn't using wordplay, she stayed with GOD and now she is sitting alongside him....RIP
She was such a beautiful girl, and so talented, but very underrated like most African American actresses in Hollywood! RIP Michelle!😪
@@midwestmayhem330 Who cares what you see troll. Go back to kissing tRump's ring!
Yall too old to not kno who you are smh
You mean hollyweird? That’s why she died
@Cool Breeze I'm not saying anything to you troll. Maybe you should pick up a book every now and then. Maybe you would know by now that we all originated from Africa!
@Cool Breeze Again, pick up a book troll, or Google it! Open your eyes to the facts before you put your foot in your Irish mouth!
They cut off the first part of the clip. He gets choked up and says, "I literally cannot say her name or I'll cry." They have to bring him a tissue before he keeps going. Very moving moment.
where can i watch the whole part?
@@mannyh7883 I watched it on Philo. The TV One channel. Not sure if it's still available there, though.
It really was. It came on today at 11:00 a.m. They showed the first part and I was crying with him. It's good that she made a great impact on Jaleel and Malcolm. Where was Malcolm when she worked at the restaurant? I thought they were getting married.
@@shenequakimbro5146 They broke up in '94, so they weren't together by then. Family Matters ended in '98. That said, it sounds like they split on good terms. Malcolm flew to New York to be with her in her final moments in '98. He was at her bedside the day before she died. "'When I saw her,' [Malcolm told People magazine], 'I said, "Elephant juice." She smiled and said, "Elephant juice."'" ("Elephant juice" looks like "I love you" when you mouth the words.) This is from People magazine, "Forever Young," January 11, 1999.
@@lucenceparency7870 touching account
RIP Michelle, her passing hit me hard in the 90's.
It hit me hard as well. I found out about it over the radio on my way to work and it's still unbelievable
Me too.
Same here. Her Myra character was one of my favorite ones on "Family Matters."
Same here.
AGREED RIP MICHELLE!😥
Michelle Thomas was So Beautiful inside and out. I loved her as Myra on Family Matters and Justine on the Cosby show. She was a great Actress. RIP Michelle Thomas 🕊 you’ll never be forgotten ❤️
I just realized she was Justine.😇
@@1lbsmith she was also in Dru Hill’s never make a Promise music video
@@1lbsmith yeah when she had the fight with Theo and the woman that played Pam in Martin came in. Classic.
@@juliusjujusurratt9568 I can’t lie that poem Theo wrote Justine trying to get her back in that episode that had me cracking up 🤣
@@myckalaross8973 facts lol 😂👍 I like what Cosby did at the end had to mix up all that concoction and then he put it on his head.... Respect your woman. Lol 😂
I always thought Steve and Myra should have been together in the end. Even hearing this about Michelle Thomas the writer's of the show missed a huge opportunity with Michelle Thomas. The show should have been about moving past a crush and finding your true self, and the person who really loves you for who your are not because you had to reinvent yourself to be loved.
I agree I thought he would end up with Myra not Laura
I swear the writers missed a huge opportunity with that! Having Steve and Laura together was so dumb to me.
Well said.
It’s simply because she died. I’m sure it would’ve happened if she was still alive
@@NYCKZ360 I think she died after the show ended
What’s crazy is that you didn’t have to know her. You could see through her characters and through her eyes to see how incredible she was. We’d watch her every Friday and loved watching her bubbly personality shine and her comic genius. Still today, when I see something about her, my heart sinks just like the day I found out about her passing.
Same here. Beautiful inside and out
You can tell this still kills him inside. He’s still heartbroken over her passing.
Jaleel Reminds me of the way the late Marvin Gaye would talk about the late Tammi Terrell always so Loving and Respectful like a Big Brother/Younger Sister Vibe
Exactly you don't see too many platonic love friendships like this today
@@sophisticatedmm3632 Marvin and Tammi's relationship was not platonic, but I get your point.
Wow.. you must really be old🤣
Everyone knows about George Washington 🙄 so I guess we are all over 100 yrs old
@@sandracorley3944 😄😄EXACTLY!!
They way Jaleel talks about Michelle, Michelle seemed like the type of person everyone needed. She seemed like the person, that accepted ur strengths and weaknesses.
Anyone who knew her would have a hard time mentioning her without quivering and will tear up real quick she has a very big golden heart
It’s so sad to know that she was so sick. But hearing Jaleel and others speak about her the way they do warms my heart.
I love how he describes MichelleT. You can hear the love.
I hope TV One does an "Unsung Hollywood" episode on Michelle Thomas. I loved her as Justine in The Cosby Show.
Me too 🥰
Justine Justine 😢
@@DDavis-pg2yj I loved her. Malcolm Jamal Warner and Michelle Thomas were dating in real life
@@myckalaross8973 facts he was actually at her bedside when she passed. He said in a interview they were on the verge of marriage before her death
@@juliusjujusurratt9568 yes he was. I can’t imagine losing the love of my life like that that’s very painful 💔
Michelle was a ray of sunshine and had one of the most beautiful smiles. She is sorely missed 🕊
Don’t forget she was THEO’S girlfriend on The Cosby Show and in real life💕
He was there when she passed and was holding her in his arms.
Theo blood sacrifice her
Justine Justine!!! Theo singing the blues
@@Luvurselffirst best episode
@@kingsports1113 enough of the blood sacrifice BS.
Wow... And this is the reality for a lot of actors. I feel so sad for them when people bash them for having regular jobs and call them "failures" for simply providing for their families.
Exactly... I totally agree ... like people need to realize that life happens and you gotta do what you do... they shouldn’t be bashed for that
@@KIMKRIS1 That's true but back then and earlier, there was always a myth that because you're on television or in music, you're able to buy your momma a house, have maids and butlers at your beck and call and have a house big as a mall. We're finding out that this isn't always the case.
Because of the people who said that are Arrogant but look at Hollywood industry yet they kill themselves cause they are all slaves yeah they may become billionaires but look at their mental state “total destruction” they’re treated like shit alcohol drug abuse more sexual promiscuities in every show or film scenes they’re treated like animals the paparazzi chasing them by just leaving one foot away from your house that you have to live with a bodyguard all your life and live in the Californian desert its I don’t want to browbeat here but it’s true better off doing odd jobs rather getting their dignity taken away and Michelle was very very smart she was aware of this, she liked people and she is a comedian and wanted to give people a laugh for the show she has self respect she basically wanted to live a simple normal life not the chaotic world of Hollywood . ❤️ Michelle 😇
Beautiful and honest tribute to his dear friend. 💐
People still think that the whole "sell your soul" talk is just jokes and conspiracies smh
No, it is a bona-fide fact! No conspiracy!
@@missyhumwood6669 its also crazy how a lot of them seem to die after not selling their soul
Just about to comment this also
So that would mean Jaleel sold his soul right!? 🤔
@@SpirituallyRich. dont know. It seems that he didn't considering he's not a big Hollywood star
She was so beautiful and had the sweetest voice. I'll never forget her and her smile. She seemed so warm and kind. I bet she's the best angel in heaven.
She seemed and was always a beautiful soul. R.IP. Glad Malcom and Jaleel speak volumes of how good she was. Thank you gentlemen for keeping her alive in our thoughts.
She was the first person I ever remember dying from cancer. RIP to that beautifully talented black woman.
Thank you for being such a huge part of all of the amazing memories that came along with the 90's. It's probably the only reason some of us are still here, because we know that wholesome and hearty living does exist somewhere, because we lived through it in the 80's and 90's
A brilliant sit down with one Americas greatest icons. Jaleel is such a real person. You can see and feel the emotion he has for the memories he associates to the people he cares about and that's profound
Awww I LOVE how he honored her. I was disturbed by her passing at such a young age. 🙏🏼
It’s so sad that actors have to feel bad about working 9-5 in between jobs. Also I feel like it should be a bigger fund or bigger royalties similar to Unemployment for actors in between gigs. Also studios should be required to give actors a lump sum when a show end based off all episodes,hours and appearance to actors.
Start some kind of a union
Being an actor or in shoe business is just such a unique career field. If they caught her doing it it could easily ruin her career
@@GeronFletcher yea
@@tiffanyc8307 yes indeed
@@tiffanyc8307 I can't tell if this is a joke or not, but actors do have a union. It's called SAG-AFTRA and yes union actors are entitled to royalities but some jobs pay bigger than most. Really, most actors are broke. There's only like the top 1 percent that are rich and famous.
Rest in peace Michelle. 👑🙏🏾🕊 Beautiful woman. He spoke so eloquently and fondly of her. I loved watching her on Family Matters.
I MET THIS MAN FEW YEARS AGO AT SUPPERCLUB IN LOS ANGELES, NICEST DUDE I EVER MET, GENUINE GOOD PERSON, NOTHING BUT RESPECT ✊
What a lovely tribute to Michelle. Thank you.
This episode had almost brought me in tears when he talked about his late castmate/friend/actress Michelle Thomas!! I love how he thinks and talks about her!! There won't be a reunion without her presence!! Rest In Paradise Ms. Michelle Thomas❤❤❤
This show taught me what most guys needed to know.
A nerdy neighbor with the intellect of a college scholar, spending all of his days chasing a beautiful woman with NO interest in him whatsoever.
It hurt even more when he turned into Stefan and THEN she wanted him, while he was simultaneously turning down his dorky friends who WAS interested in him.
Be yourself. Ignore what others think of you.
10 fingers, 10 toes, mind, body, and soul. We are ALL the same.
Thats the main thing Urkel Taught Us
BE YOURSELF
Yea that Laura was shallow as hell and Steve was a simp for chasing her for so long
@@bighomie8255I'd say Stefan is more a simp than Steve to be fair. Steve may have looked like a simp, but Stefan acted and spoke like one.
Plus at the end, we are all going to the same place
I always thought she was gorgeous, the best looking girl on Family Matters tbh
She was perfection! One of the most beautiful smiles on tv EVER !! She is truly missed! I spent most of my life trying to find a woman that loves me the way Myra loved Steve LOL Long Live Michelle Myra Thomas !
Everyone speaks so beautiful of her. I love hearing about how down to earth and humble she was.
When he was speaking on her...he sounded like a broken man who didnt want to speak because the pain of her loss is something he still struggles with
I'm sure "a lot of opportunities to sell her soul to the Devil to start climbing a little faster" means casting couch/Weinstein situations. The actors who go along with that stuff sometimes get ahead and we see them on the big screen...actors who refuse usually disappear into obscurity. This happens way too often - to women *and* men in the industry. I'm glad we're taking a moment here to remember her; she didn't deserve obscurity.
Hence the Hollywood powerbroker saying to those whom displease them: "You'll never work in this town again!"
👍...
UA-cam
SAVAGE ROBOT
UA-cam
ALL EVIL DECIVERS
UA-cam
SINCERELY ARIES
UA-cam
KI JENN
@@symontemplar1418
UA-cam
SAVAGE ROBOT
ALL EVIL DECIVERS
UA-cam
SINCERELY ARIES
UA-cam
KI JENN
I’m sure that’s a part of it but I’m sure he means literally selling her soul to the devil. This world is more spiritual than you think....... even Katy Perry said it in an interview light heartedly. Yet she was telling the truth..... and tried to down play it
There is nothing wrong with waiting tables especially when a tv show is on hiatus or when the season is over. Being an actor is a tough profession and you won't always have a job. I wish she knew that 😔🙏rip
I can't tell you how glad I am to hear this honest and open commentary about Michelle Thomas. Her passing was a shock and she is well missed. :(
Thank you for sharing this candid interview Jaleel; I've always loved Family Matters and every actor. This is the first I've heard of Michelle's illness and passing. May she RIP.
He described her so eloquently. Truly missed
That was beautiful! Jaleel tells a very touching story and truth, in his own words.
"She had a lot of uppertunities to *sell her soul to the devil* to climb a little bit faster as an actress"
- That wasn't an analogy
Powerful 🙏🏿
Its a metaphor are you stupid?
Michael I get your point!
@@skrskr9000 it's not tho...but you too quick wit the stupid
Feel me? That was real talk right there...
I ❤️ seeing her in her episodes, she just radiates wonderful energy...I was so shocked to hear of her passing
Sonic FTW.
The good ones always die young. May Michelle Thomas RIP.
Her beauty as a person resonated through the television screen. What an angel of light! We will never forget you, Michelle. ❤️
That's What's Up ! 👑 MICHELLE didn't sellout like MOST of Us(INCLUDING regular 9-5ers) HAS over a dam 💵.
She was so vibrant and wonderful on that show, and from everything I’ve read she was also that way in her life.
She was lost so tragically young. I’ve no doubt she’d have gone on to give great performances in a multitude of roles.
Absolutely, totally and completely beautiful, inside and out.. Im sorry Mama, I didn't know ur story, now I do, how could I ever forget ur beautiful smile, now I never will...❤❤❤
Wow, I am glad he shared this. I always loved seeing Michelle Thomas on the screen as a kid. Rest in Power Michelle
She had the best smile...in the UNIVERSE!! 😁 God rest her soul..😔💔
He's absolutely right about the "opportunities to sell her soul..." . Then you think about the "Cardi B's" of the world today. It's a shame
Hollyweird or music industry and it’s always either cancer or suicide trust me these people are being killed
@@seekthelighttruth3207 all because Lucifer needs sacrifices!
Ain't THAT the truth!!!
This video has zero to do with Cardi yet you managed to bring her up. True fan behavior
@@delk127 It's called making a correlation. It how you measure things to make them have something to do with one another. True not knowing standard English, Math,or Science which shows how to correlate between any variables
Such a rare jewel in today's age of loss integrity. Jaleel really has seen it all man... like frfr. He's seen all sides of the industry and literally lived to tell about it.
May She continue to
rest in Peace. I remember when I found out she passed away. I was so heart broken . Im glad ppl have good memories about her. That will live on
I love this show. Grew up watching it and the characters/actors were amazing. So sad she passed away. I think all these actors were so innocent and good people that they didn't have the need to desire more ambitious to peruse a life long career in Hollywood, most 80s and 90s show actors were simple people but very talented.
i remember when Theo from 92.3 the beat here in Southern Cali ( they're no longer on air ) broke the news about her passin, a lot of people were hurt an that broadcaster cried so hard u couldn't help but cry also
We were watching a family matters rerun in Toronto summer of 1999 at a restaurant when Myra appeared everyone including the waiters were giving her a standing ovation like tears shed and so many napkins were used she is so loved even Canada
So sad how the heartbreak hasn’t gone away for Jaleel. I love how he was so close with Michelle and says all these amazing things about her! Gone way too soon, she had an amazing smile 😊
Michelle Thomas was a real treasure. She was a part of not one, but two of my favorite shows. The Cosby Show as Justine, and of course, Family Matters as Myra. Super talented and gone way too soon. RIP.
Jaleel your a good human being. God rest Michelles soul... I almost started crying😭😭😭
She was gorgeous girl, I was a young kid, early teen when this show was on, and I found out maybe 15 years ago she passed on.
Good video, as is this whole series of interviews with Jaleel White. Although personally, I think a more appropriate title for this video would be the loss of Jaleel White's and Michelle Thomas's innocence. :)
True Story. In the 90s when I was a dancer on Soul Train and she was a guest host, I actually got the chance to dance with her and she was actually really nice and a truly big smile. I wish I could find that episode.
I think is there now soul train May 1996 on UA-cam
Michelle Thomas, Aaliyah and Lisa Left eye Lopez was it for me. It’s in the eyes. It something about those eyes that shows you the purity of their soul. R.I.P to you all.
Wow... This is really deep... I'm sure she is smiling down watching over him
She will forever be a legend and I personally felt like she would have got in urban black community with amazing talent I can only Imagine the roles she would get God bless her I remember when she past it just didn't feel real still sometimes doesn't
She was amazing. I remember her from a casting call and girls were mean back then. They didn't even speak. She did.
Had a big big crush on Myra...... it really hurt when she passed... one of the prettiest girls to ever grace a TV screen
It’s the not selling her soul for fame and fortune for me 🙏🏾 rip Myra aka Michele Thomas you kept your dignity 🕊
Oh what fun we had watching you all grow...thank you...her time was enjoyed by so many!..
This guy was a genius child actor. I hope he is doing well. Its a terrible shame that Michelle Thomas died at such a young age. So sad.
Yo his comment about Michelle was the realest..., you can leave it at that🔥🔥🔥
Even though I never had the pleasure to meet her, I find myself missing Michelle. I feel like that says something about the kind of unique, incredible spirit she was.
You can see he genuinely loves her ❤️
Myra Boutros Boutros Monkhouse. I loved her. I agree so many people are willing to do what ever it takes to make it big and in the end you're used up and discarded for the next shiny toy that is willing to do even more than you that is most likely younger.
True. Like a bad relationship.
Well done Sir..
Thank you for your expression and compassion for your coworker.
Love your empathy and sympathy.
Understood..
Thank you again.
Growing up, I never understood how Steve was smart enough to clone himself, but not see that Myra actually loved him.
because he still loved Laura. Didn't it even get to the point to where he cloned himself and created Steve for Myra and Stefon for Laura?
I remember michelle on the young and the restless she was a great singer. She sang Natalie cole's song inseparable on y&r and it was perfect. Michelle is one of the most beautiful women i'd seen on tv. I still miss Michelle. She was a great actress.
She was my crush for real for real... good to know that she was beautiful on the inside and out
Jaleel is so honest and solid. RIP Michelle🙏🏾. Thank you for your smile and thank you for all the great memories! “She refused to sell her soul” 🙌🏾
I loved how he said Ms Thomas wasn't that girl to sell her soul .she was a real Gem .im glad today we have black women and black men in power all the devils are getting canceled , cancel culture is not all bad lol she is part of a legacy of women who did the right thing and never gave into the slim jerks of the past .she worked ,had her pride and her beautiful soul was still pure she will never be forgotten RIP
Cancel
Evil but not people who are willing
To change and grow
It's always a great thing to have had someone important to you in your life. Losing that person can impact you in a way you never thought possible or even are unaware of. Some people turn to helping people out more while others begin a cycle of self destruction. It's how you use the memory of that person that determines if that person can live on through you. What did you learn and take as yours from them? How they live on through you is the greatest honor of their memory that you can give to the world!
love this!
Did not know she passed she was a incredible actress 🙏🏽🏁
Every time someone speaks about this beautiful soul it's always good & positive things said. I'd like to hear Malcolm Jamal Warner talk about her.
I had SUCH a big crush on Myra. Finally, a woman who sees a nerd for who he is and accepts him wholeheartedly. She didn’t need nor want him to change at all unlike Laura. Still miss her even now. 😩😫
Exactly. Laura was only friendly with Steve when she wanted Stefan
I still couldn’t understand why Urkel still fondled for Laura and rejected Myra for so long and yet she still wanted him badly, look at her patience unlike Laura who didn’t give a rats ass if Steve was lost in a snake infested forest
You can tell she had a beautiful spirit because everyone hold her in the highest regards. What an 👼
It's sad how these networks want nothing to do with you after you have made them so much money. Have a back up career cause acting doesn't always pay the Bills.
She was so beautiful... My first celebrity crush. I knew her first as justine from the cosby show. I walked around singin the “justine justine” song for days when i first heard it. I didn’t know she passed til adulthood... broke my heart.
TV has really cast a spell on the way we perceive these actors outside of their roles.
Indeed💖They’re precious
That’s a good think, that’s good acting!!
@@QueenK88 I don't think you understood what I meant cause that's actually a bad thing. We're not seeing the actors as people when they're not acting because of the media.
@@yoseflopez5141 you have a point there
Great insight into the real life of Michelle Thomas, beyond the characters she played. Her highs, and lows, but ultimately she is an example of a great human being, because in spite of the obstacles in her path. She did her best to keep moving forward. Plus, like bruce Lee said: the key to immortality is living a life worth remembering.
I believe Michelle Thomas lived a life worth remembering, not only because of her acting career, but also because she truly was a great person according to everyone that knew her, met her, as well as her fans showing her love too.
I enjoyed listening to jaleel white reminiscing about Michelle Thomas, and telling us what a caring, and virtuous person she was, and how she didn't burden others with her troubles. Not many people are like her. As they say: the good ones die young. Michelle Thomas was certainly one of those good people. 😊
Michelle Thomas was gone way too soon she was pure magic 🎩✨
Shoutout to the selector, this a fire soundtrack underneath his talks.