From Motown melodies to television magic, Telma Hopkins' career has defined generations of entertainment.
Raised in Detroit, she began as a young singer at Golden World Studios before joining Motown, lending her voice to hits by Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, and others who shaped the soundtrack of an era. Her next act came with Tony Orlando and Dawn — catapulting her from backup singer to international fame during the golden age of variety television.
Telma went on to charm audiences in sitcom classics like Bosom Buddies, Gimme a Break!, and as the unforgettable Aunt Rachel on Family Matters. Now, she's celebrating that legacy with her iHeartRadio rewatch podcast Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kelly, where she revisits beloved moments and shares behind-the-scenes stories from one of TV's most cherished family shows.
🎧 Highlights
- Growing up in Detroit's music scene and recording with Motown legends
- From studio singer to television star: the leap from Tony Orlando and Dawn to primetime fame
- Candid memories of working with icons like Carol Burnett and Isaac Hayes
- How Family Matters became a cultural touchstone for Black family storytelling
- The heart behind Telma's new rewatch podcast Welcome to the Family and her reflections on legacy, laughter, and staying connected through storytelling
You're going to love my conversation with Telma Hopkins
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Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.
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