Who was more talented in their sitcom: Will Smith or Jaleel White?

[Billie Jean]

Will Smith:

Charismatic
Wide acting range
Comedic timing
Empathetic and likeable actor


Jaleel White:

Child prodigy
Played multiple characters
Physical comedy
First (major?) representation of a nerdy black man

 

[cole phelps]

Jaleel

 

[Doobie Doo]

Its a odd comparison because their performance is hinged off what the writers cook up. I think Jaleel could have played both characters but don't think Will could play Urkel (not believable)

But one thing Jaleel never gets credit for his physical comedy.

 

[BaldingSoHard]

I'm gonna give the slight edge to Jaleel. While the Fresh Prince certainly did it's thing, Steve Urkel became a cultural icon, largely because of his willingness to go all-in on the character.

 

[Artificial Intelligence]

.......................

 

[Luke Cage]

I know why ya'll voting for jaleel

 

[UpAndComing]

Jaleel and it's not even close

Top 5 Sitcom actor of all time

 

[get these nets]

I know why ya'll voting for jaleel

Don't you have a non Black spouse?

 

[Cyrus' Wife]

Will Smith.

Much greater range than Jaleel. He also played against type. He's a handsome guy who instead of playing a stuck-up or arrogant type of role played one based on a funny and fun-loving personality which is a rarity. Plus he did serious scenes very well and provided funny "assists" with his costars like Carlton and Hilary and Jeff and Geoffrey etc...he wasn't afraid or insecure in having his costars get their funny moments in too on a regular basis.

Jaleel had zero range and basically just played a stereotypical nerd and even the Stefan character was not believable.

 

[Double Burger With Cheese]

Y’all know how I feel about Will

 

[Luke Cage]

Don't you have a non Black spouse?

I only did that to get into hollywood. Once i get that breakout series i'mma leave her for a black woman

 

[Neo. The Only. The One.]

Jaleel just based on the fact that he played swagless urkel for several years and seamlessly transitioned to Stefan.

 

[Ya' Cousin Cleon]

/thread

 

[BlackMajik]

Jaleel

 

[get these nets]

How come the coli don't want me?