Fugitive Arrest of ‘Family Matters’ Star Darius McCrary Sparks Legal Scrutiny Across State Lines

McCrary’s arrest marks another difficult chapter in the life of a child-star-turned-adult-actor navigating public and private turmoil. After Family Matters ended in 1998, he continued acting in television and film but struggled with career consistency. The arrest comes amid reports that he was pursuing charitable projects aimed at assisting the homeless in Baja California—efforts his representatives say will continue.

Entertainment attorneys say the optics of his detention near an international border—on a warrant linked to child-support arrears—could compound reputational damage and hinder his ability to secure roles or endorsements.

McCrary is scheduled for his first California court appearance Wednesday in San Diego County. The hearing will determine whether he waives extradition to Michigan or contests it. If extradition is granted, Oakland County authorities will likely transport him to Michigan within two weeks for a separate arraignment on the underlying contempt and support-violation matters.