Debuting November 5, hosts and castmates Telma Hopkins and Kellie Williams will recount every episode, reveal never-before-heard stories and share their personal experiences as stars of the longest-running and most-watched series featuring a Black cast

Special guests will include original cast and crew members Reginald VelJohnson, Shawn Harrison, Bob Boyett and more

Listen to the trailer now HERE

WHAT: iHeartPodcasts, the no. 1 podcast publisher according to Podtrac, and Audiation announced “Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kellie,” the ultimate insider’s look at the hit 90s sitcom “Family Matters,” told through the words of show stars Telma Hopkins (Aunt Rachel) and Kellie Williams (Laura Winslow) - castmates who have become like family over the years. In the new original podcast, the duo will recount every episode from the series in order, taking listeners behind the scenes to reveal never-before-heard stories, recount hilarious blunders and share their personal experiences as the show grew into one of the longest-running and most-watched series featuring a Black cast. Guests will include members of the cast and production team including series producer Bob Boyett, Reggie VelJohnson (Carl Winslow), Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo) and more. Additionally, Hopkins and Williams will answer listener questions about the show. In the first episode, the hosts will discuss their personal journey to being cast on the series, their favorite moments from filming the pilot and the episode's storyline.

WHO: From child star to celebrated actress, producer, and philanthropist, Kellie Shanygne Williams has established herself as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Kellie began her journey into acting at just four years old. Her breakout moment came with a home video audition, filmed by her father, that secured her the iconic role of Laura Winslow on the beloved sitcom “Family Matters.” The show became a cultural phenomenon, and Kellie’s portrayal of Laura cemented her place in the hearts of audiences nationwide. Her performances and contributions to the industry have earned her numerous award nominations and recognition as a dedicated artist and storyteller. 

Telma Hopkins is a renowned actress and singer who first gained fame as a member of Tony Orlando and Dawn. She got her start as a teenager in Detroit singing background vocals on some of Motown's most memorable hits like "Reach Out," "Heard It Through The Grapevine" and "That's The Way Love Is," as well as Isaac Hayes' classic soundtrack from the movie "Shaft." After her singing career, Telma showcased her comedic talent in sitcoms like Bosom Buddies, Gimme a Break!, and Family Matters, earning multiple NAACP Image Award nominations and a BET Comedy Award. Her film credits include The Wood, Running Out of Time, and The Matrix Resurrections. Telma recently appeared in “Brewster’s Millions: Christmas” and has been featured in Netflix series “Dead To Me,” “Family Reunion,” “The Family Business,” and soap opera “The Young and the Restless.” She is also one of the stars of the 2025 Amazon series “Clean Slate,” alongside George Wallace and Laverne Cox. 

WHEN: “Welcome To The Family with Telma and Kellie” will premiere on November 5, 2025. New episodes will be available weekly on Wednesdays. Listen to the trailer now, HERE.

WHERE: “Welcome To The Family with Telma and Kellie” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and will be available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Visit thefamilymatterspod.com for more information.

ASSETS: Download the hi-res cover art HERE.

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ABOUT AUDIATION, INC.

Audiation is a Peabody Award-nominated podcast company based in New York. The company produces commissioned and original series in partnership with brands, celebrities, content creators and thought leaders — while also providing a full suite of related services. It partners with clients around the globe to produce chart-topping series that span a variety of topics and industries. Audiation Originals include “Gender Spiral with Ally Beardsley and Babette Thomas” (Dual Gold Award winner in the 2025 Signal Awards), “Leaving the Island” and “Four Strings and the Truth.” Visit audiation.fm for more information.