Jo Marie Payton has explained her decision to exit the sitcom Family Matters midway through its final season after nearly three decades of rumors.
Payton, who portrayed Harriette Winslow, said she had wanted a change for years. She cited an offer to star in a Mahalia Jackson story and a desire for new creative challenges.
She told TV Series Finale that she felt stifled by the role. "A baker that loves to bake doesn't want to stop baking," Payton said. "They just don't always want to make chocolate cake or chocolate cookies."
When her contract ended after season eight, she agreed to film eight episodes of season nine to help the show's move from ABC to CBS. She then exercised an option to leave, with Judyann Elder taking over the part.
Payton said false rumors that she was jealous of Jaleel White hurt her. After departing, she released a jazz album and appeared in shows including Moesha and Will & Grace. She also voiced Suga Mama in The Proud Family.