Dave Chappelle’s Joke About Reginald VelJohnson and Diddy’s Parties Sparks Reaction from the “Family Matters” Star

Comedian Dave Chappelle recently stirred up laughter—and a bit of confusion—during his Saturday Night Live monologue on January 18, when he humorously referenced a wild rumor involving Reginald VelJohnson, the beloved actor who played Carl Winslow on Family Matters, and Sean “P. Diddy” Combs’ infamous “freak off” parties. While VelJohnson has firmly denied any involvement in such events, he couldn’t help but appreciate Chappelle’s comedic take on the bizarre and baseless story.

During his SNL appearance, Chappelle touched on Diddy’s legal troubles and the swirling rumors surrounding the music mogul’s lifestyle. In one particularly memorable joke, Chappelle quipped that VelJohnson had allegedly attended one of Diddy’s parties. “I saw one thing on the internet, so I’m not sure that it’s true—probably doubt it’s true,” Chappelle began, setting up the punchline. “But I saw it, some guy who said he knew Puffy [and] was like, ‘Yeah, man, I was at the freak-off one time, and Puff was in there with Carl Winslow, the dad from Family Matters. He was smashing, and I was like, ‘Puff, what are you doing?’ And he was like, ‘Yeah, feels good to make another man do your bidding.’ And I was like, ‘Oh my god, Carl Winslow from Family Matters was there, and I wasn’t invited?! It’s worse than I thought.’”

DAVE CHAPPELLE MADE IT FUNNY

The joke drew laughs from the audience, but it also reignited speculation about the origins of the rumor. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, VelJohnson addressed the false claims, expressing both amusement and bewilderment. “That stuff that came out is so false, but I have to hear it every now and then,” VelJohnson said. “But Dave Chappelle made it funny, and I really appreciate that. That was really cool. He made it seem very civil.”

VelJohnson went on to clarify that he has no connection to Diddy or his parties, emphasizing that the rumor is entirely unfounded. “I have no idea why they started that,” he said. “I don’t know why, and it will never go away. I never even met the man. I have no idea what they’re talking about. I just pay it no mind and keep on doing what I do. I have no idea why they put me connected with it.”

DIDDY RUMOR IS A LIE SAYS VELJOHNSON

Despite the absurdity of the rumor, VelJohnson took Chappelle’s joke in stride, showing no hard feelings toward the comedian. “It was kinda nice to see him talk about me,” VelJohnson admitted. “I just wish he was talking about something a little bit better than that stupid lie with Diddy. But he made it funny, and I appreciate that. It made me look good.”

VelJohnson’s good-natured response highlights his ability to rise above the noise of internet gossip and maintain his reputation as a respected and beloved figure in entertainment. Known for his iconic role as the dependable and lovable Carl Winslow, VelJohnson has spent decades bringing joy to audiences, and he remains focused on his craft despite the occasional brush with bizarre rumors.

As for Chappelle, his SNL monologue once again showcased his knack for turning even the most outlandish stories into comedy gold. And while the rumor about VelJohnson and Diddy may be nothing more than an internet fabrication, it’s clear that VelJohnson’s grace and humor have only added to his enduring legacy.