Jaleel White reflects on Jonathan Brandis' death and its impact on his career in new memoir

In his new memoir Growing Up Urkel, Jaleel White opens up about the profound emotional toll that the tragic death of his former co-star, Jonathan Brandis, had on his view of the entertainment industry. White and Brandis were both cast in the 2003 TV pilot 111 Gramercy Park, a drama series set in an upscale New York City apartment building. The show, which also featured Frank Langella and Peter Strauss, never made it to the screen.

During filming, White recalls Brandis' strong desire for the pilot to succeed, frequently asking about its future. White wrote in his memoir that Brandis, much like him, was seeking a chance for a career revival, with 111 Gramercy Park offering the possibility of a leading role. “Jonathan seemed to feel like this project could feed his soul,” White reflected, seeing in his co-star a shared desire for more significant opportunities.

Tragically, Brandis died by suicide in November 2003 at the age of 27. White, deeply affected by his death, reflected on the struggles Brandis faced in the industry after his success as a child star. “I could only speculate what Jonathan was going through at that time,” White shared, acknowledging the weight of their shared experiences in Hollywood.

For White, Brandis’ passing sparked a crisis of confidence in his own career. “I want out. This business kills people from the inside,” he confessed, revealing the emotional impact Brandis’ death had on him. Though White continued to work in the industry, he admits that the loss of Brandis darkened his outlook, even leading him to mourn his co-star as a "fallen soldier."

Despite not being close as children, White and Brandis developed a friendship while filming 111 Gramercy Park. In his memoir, White honors his late co-star, remembering their time together in Toronto as one of their most meaningful connections.