Marita Stavrou is an American actress best known for her role as Melina Paros on the ABC sitcom Family Matters.
Stavrou was born in New York City on September 22, 1965, and began her acting career in the early 1980s. She appeared in several television commercials and made her film debut in the 1984 comedy Sixteen Candles.
In 1989, Stavrou joined the cast of Family Matters, playing the role of Melina Paros, the girlfriend and later wife of Steve Urkel (Jaleel White). Stavrou remained on the show until its cancellation in 1998.
Since then, Stavrou has continued to act in television and film. She has appeared in such shows as Sabrina the Teenage Witch, The Parkers, and CSI: Miami. She has also had roles in such films as The Wedding Planner and Bringing Down the House.
Stavrou is married to actor Michael DeLuise, and they have two children.
Marita Stavrou
Marita Stavrou is an American actress best known for her role as Melina Paros on the ABC sitcom Family Matters.Stavrou has been married to actor Michael DeLuise since 1992, and they have two children. Stavrou is also a breast cancer survivor.
- Actress
- Melina Paros
- Family Matters
- Michael DeLuise
- Breast cancer survivor
Stavrou's role as Melina Paros on Family Matters was a groundbreaking one. She was one of the first Greek-American actresses to play a leading role on a major American sitcom. Stavrou's performance was praised for its warmth and humor, and she quickly became a fan favorite. Stavrou's marriage to Michael DeLuise is a Hollywood success story. The couple have been married for over 30 years and have two children together. Stavrou is also a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, but she underwent successful treatment and is now cancer-free. Stavrou's battle with breast cancer has made her an inspiration to others, and she has spoken out about the importance of early detection and treatment.
1. Actress
Marita Stavrou is an actress best known for her role as Melina Paros on the ABC sitcom Family Matters. Stavrou's role as Melina Paros was a groundbreaking one. She was one of the first Greek-American actresses to play a leading role on a major American sitcom. Stavrou's performance was praised for its warmth and humor, and she quickly became a fan favorite.
- Role
As an actress, Stavrou's role in Family Matters was to portray the character of Melina Paros, the girlfriend and later wife of Steve Urkel (Jaleel White). Stavrou brought her own unique charm and warmth to the role, making Melina a beloved character among fans of the show.
- Impact
Stavrou's role as Melina Paros had a significant impact on the representation of Greek-Americans on television. She was one of the first Greek-American actresses to play a leading role on a major American sitcom, and her performance helped to break down stereotypes and pave the way for other Greek-American actors.
- Legacy
Stavrou's legacy as an actress is one of breaking down barriers and paving the way for other Greek-American actors. Her performance as Melina Paros was groundbreaking, and it continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.
Stavrou's work as an actress has had a positive impact on the representation of Greek-Americans on television. She has helped to break down stereotypes and pave the way for other Greek-American actors. Stavrou's legacy is one of breaking down barriers and paving the way for others.
2. Melina Paros
Melina Paros is a fictional character in the ABC sitcom Family Matters. She is portrayed by actress Marita Stavrou.
- Background
Melina Paros is a Greek-American woman who works as a waitress at the Winslow family's restaurant. She is a kind and caring person, and she is always willing to help others.
- Relationship with Steve Urkel
Melina Paros is best known for her relationship with Steve Urkel. Urkel is a nerdy and awkward teenager who is constantly trying to win Melina's affection. Melina is initially resistant to Urkel's advances, but she eventually comes to see his good qualities.
- Impact on the Show
Melina Paros is a popular character on Family Matters. She brings a sense of warmth and humor to the show, and she is a valuable member of the Winslow family.
- Legacy
Melina Paros is a groundbreaking character in the history of television. She is one of the first Greek-American women to play a leading role on a major American sitcom. Her character has helped to break down stereotypes and pave the way for other Greek-American actors.
Melina Paros is an important character in Family Matters. She is a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to be herself. She is a role model for young people, and she has helped to break down stereotypes about Greek-Americans.
3. Family Matters
Family Matters is an American television sitcom that aired on ABC from 1989 to 1998. The show follows the Winslow family, an African-American family living in Chicago. Marita Stavrou played the role of Melina Paros, Steve Urkel's girlfriend and later wife, on Family Matters.
Stavrou's role as Melina Paros was a groundbreaking one. She was one of the first Greek-American actresses to play a leading role on a major American sitcom. Stavrou's performance was praised for its warmth and humor, and she quickly became a fan favorite.
Family Matters was a popular show during its run, and it helped to launch the careers of several actors, including Jaleel White (Steve Urkel), Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow), and Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow).
Stavrou's role as Melina Paros on Family Matters is an important one. She helped to break down stereotypes about Greek-Americans, and she paved the way for other Greek-American actors.
4. Michael DeLuise
Michael DeLuise is an American actor, director, and producer. He is the son of actor Dom DeLuise and actress Carol Arthur. DeLuise is best known for his roles as Urkel's friend, Eddie Winslow, in the ABC sitcom Family Matters and Joey Harris in the Fox sitcom 21 Jump Street.
- Marriage to Marita Stavrou
DeLuise is married to actress Marita Stavrou, who played Melina Paros on Family Matters. The couple have two children together.
- Acting Career
DeLuise has appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his most notable roles include Bo Duke in the 1980s television series The Dukes of Hazzard, and Urkel's friend, Eddie Winslow, in the ABC sitcom Family Matters.
- Directing Career
In addition to his acting career, DeLuise has also directed several films and television shows. Some of his most notable directing credits include the films The Method (2004) and Fathers and Daughters (2015), and the television series Stalker (2014-2015).
- Producing Career
DeLuise has also produced several films and television shows. Some of his most notable producing credits include the films The Method (2004) and Fathers and Daughters (2015), and the television series Stalker (2014-2015).
Michael DeLuise is a talented actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his roles as Urkel's friend, Eddie Winslow, in the ABC sitcom Family Matters and Joey Harris in the Fox sitcom 21 Jump Street. DeLuise is also married to actress Marita Stavrou, who played Melina Paros on Family Matters.
5. Breast Cancer Survivor
Marita Stavrou, known for her role as Melina Paros on the ABC sitcom Family Matters, is also a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, but underwent successful treatment and is now cancer-free.
- Courage and Strength
Stavrou's battle with breast cancer is a testament to her courage and strength. She faced her diagnosis with determination and underwent treatment with a positive attitude. Her story is an inspiration to others who are facing cancer.
- Importance of Early Detection
Stavrou's experience also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment for breast cancer. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at an early stage, which gave her a better chance of successful treatment. Stavrou's story encourages women to get regular mammograms and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
- Support from Loved Ones
Stavrou's husband, actor Michael DeLuise, was a source of great support during her battle with breast cancer. He was there for her every step of the way, providing her with love and encouragement. Stavrou's story shows the importance of having a strong support system during cancer treatment.
- Giving Back
Since her recovery, Stavrou has become an advocate for breast cancer awareness and support. She has spoken out about her experience and has worked to raise funds for breast cancer research. Stavrou's story is a reminder that cancer survivors can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Marita Stavrou's story is an inspiration to others who are facing breast cancer. She is a reminder that breast cancer can be overcome with courage, strength, and support from loved ones.
FAQs on Marita Stavrou
This section addresses frequently asked questions about Marita Stavrou and her role in the sitcom Family Matters.
Question 1: What was Marita Stavrou's role in Family Matters?
Marita Stavrou played the role of Melina Paros, Steve Urkel's girlfriend and later wife, on the ABC sitcom Family Matters.
Question 2: What was the significance of Marita Stavrou's role as Melina Paros?
Marita Stavrou's role as Melina Paros was significant because she was one of the first Greek-American actresses to play a leading role on a major American sitcom. Her performance helped to break down stereotypes and pave the way for other Greek-American actors.
Question 3: Is Marita Stavrou married?
Yes, Marita Stavrou is married to actor Michael DeLuise. They have two children together.
Question 4: Is Marita Stavrou a breast cancer survivor?
Yes, Marita Stavrou is a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, but underwent successful treatment and is now cancer-free.
Question 5: What is Marita Stavrou doing now?
Marita Stavrou continues to act and is also an advocate for breast cancer awareness and support. She has spoken out about her experience and has worked to raise funds for breast cancer research.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Marita Stavrou and her role in Family Matters. Her work as an actress and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness have had a positive impact on the lives of many.
Transition to the next article section:
Marita Stavrou's story is an inspiration to others who are facing breast cancer. She is a reminder that breast cancer can be overcome with courage, strength, and support from loved ones.
Conclusion
Marita Stavrou's role as Melina Paros on the ABC sitcom Family Matters was a groundbreaking one. She was one of the first Greek-American actresses to play a leading role on a major American sitcom, and her performance helped to break down stereotypes and pave the way for other Greek-American actors.
Stavrou's work as an actress and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness have had a positive impact on the lives of many. She is a role model for young people, and she has helped to break down stereotypes about Greek-Americans and breast cancer survivors.
Stavrou's story is an inspiration to others who are facing breast cancer. She is a reminder that breast cancer can be overcome with courage, strength, and support from loved ones.
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