Family Matters was one of the most beloved sitcoms of the 1990s, known for its heartwarming family moments, hilarious comedic situations, and of course, the unforgettable Steve Urkel. Over the show’s 9-season run, it produced some truly iconic episodes that are still fondly remembered by fans today. Whether you grew up with it or discovered it through reruns, Family Matters always delivered laughs and emotional moments, and its standout episodes are etched into TV history.
In this article, we’ll dive into the 10 best episodes of Family Matters as ranked by IMDb. These episodes represent everything that made the show great, from Urkel’s antics to the heartwarming moments that brought the Winslow family closer together. So, let’s take a look at what IMDb fans have deemed the most memorable episodes!
1. “Stefan Returns” (Season 9, Episode 24)
IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
The final episode of Family Matters was a fitting send-off, featuring the return of Steve Urkel’s suave alter ego, Stefan Urquelle. After years of Urkel’s goofy antics, fans finally got to see Stefan, who had once been Laura’s dream man. In this emotional finale, we saw Urkel’s transformation, both as a character and a person, as he finally achieved his goals and was able to confess his love for Laura.
The episode isn’t just memorable for its high ratings, but also for its nostalgic factor—bringing fans full circle in the story of Steve Urkel’s journey and his relationship with the Winslow family.
2. “Did I Do That to the Holidays?” (Season 9, Episode 11)
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
A holiday episode that perfectly encapsulates the chaos and charm that was Steve Urkel, Did I Do That to the Holidays? had everything you could ask for in a Family Matters episode—hilarious mishaps, heartfelt moments, and, of course, Urkel in the middle of it all. This episode had the character meddling in the Winslow family’s holiday plans, resulting in some comical disasters. It’s a reminder of the lovable, well-meaning chaos Urkel brought to every situation.
What makes this episode so great is how it balances humor with the warm holiday spirit that fans loved about Family Matters. The comedy might be exaggerated, but the heart is real.
3. “The Urkel Family” (Season 8, Episode 24)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
This hilarious episode is a family reunion like no other. Steve Urkel invites his family over to the Winslow household, leading to a series of comedic moments. But what really makes The Urkel Family stand out is how it deepens the understanding of Urkel’s quirky but loving background. Seeing Urkel’s family puts his behavior into perspective and adds layers to his character. The episode also features plenty of classic Urkel moments, such as his physical comedy and catchphrases, making it a fan favorite.
4. “Urkel’s Mom” (Season 8, Episode 5)
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
In this episode, viewers finally meet Urkel’s mother, who shares many of his endearing traits. The entire family is surprised by how similar she is to Steve, from her voice to her mannerisms. This episode stands out for its sweet portrayal of Urkel’s family life, offering insight into what made Steve the way he is. Additionally, it offers some great humor, as Urkel’s mom causes her fair share of chaos in the Winslow household.
Urkel’s Mom is a perfect blend of heartwarming and hilarious, making it one of the top episodes.
5. “Mother’s Day” (Season 8, Episode 23)
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
This emotional episode centers around Carl and his mother, and the way their family dynamics evolve when Harriette has to step in. The show’s ability to touch on real-life family struggles and challenges was one of its greatest strengths, and Mother’s Day is a perfect example of that. While it has its moments of humor, it also dives deep into themes of love, loss, and family bonds. This episode shows the Winslow family at their most vulnerable and highlights the show’s ability to tackle sensitive issues with grace.
6. “Cousin Urkel” (Season 6, Episode 25)
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
The Cousin Urkel episode is a fan favorite due to its unique premise. Steve Urkel, in typical fashion, wants to impress Laura by adopting a new persona—his “cool cousin.” This leads to a series of comic situations where Urkel tries to balance his awkwardness with his cooler cousin’s persona. The contrast between Urkel and his cousin provides some of the episode’s funniest moments, while also showcasing the heart of Family Matters—that no matter what, family sticks together.
7. “The Wedding” (Season 7, Episode 24)
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
One of the most pivotal moments in Family Matters history occurs in The Wedding. This episode centers around the marriage of Carl and Harriette Winslow, marking a significant milestone in the show’s history. What makes this episode so memorable is its focus on family unity and the power of love. Though Steve Urkel is at his usual antics, the heartwarming moments that surround the wedding showcase the true essence of the Winslow family.
The Wedding is a great blend of comedy and emotional depth, encapsulating what fans loved about the show.
8. “Dr. Urkel and Mr. Cool” (Season 6, Episode 23)
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
In this episode, Steve Urkel uses his infamous invention to transform into the suave and sophisticated “Stefan Urquelle.” As usual, chaos ensues when the “cool” version of Urkel causes confusion and romantic tension. This episode stands out because it highlights Urkel’s insecurities and his desire to be loved for who he is, rather than just his goofy persona. The humor is classic Urkel, but the emotional complexity of the character shines through.
9. “Stefan’s Problem” (Season 8, Episode 13)
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Another episode that focuses on the dynamic between Steve Urkel and his suave alter ego Stefan Urquelle, Stefan’s Problem deals with the challenges of balancing these two very different personas. Stefan’s apparent “problem” is his growing feelings for Laura, which complicates the relationship between him and Urkel. This episode is another example of the show’s clever use of humor to explore deeper themes of self-esteem and identity.
10. “The Big Fix-Up” (Season 5, Episode 23)
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
The Big Fix-Up episode stands out for its unique premise: Steve Urkel sets out to play matchmaker for Carl and Harriette. But of course, things don’t go as planned, and Urkel’s overzealous attempts lead to a hilarious chain of events. What makes this episode so memorable is how it allows Urkel to display his resourcefulness and loyalty to the Winslows. It’s a great example of how his character grew over the course of the show.
Conclusion: Why These Episodes Matter
The 10 best episodes of Family Matters, ranked by IMDb, highlight what made the show such a beloved classic. From Steve Urkel’s unforgettable antics to the heartwarming family moments, these episodes showcase the show’s blend of humor, emotion, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the show, these episodes are the perfect reminder of why Family Matters remains a TV classic to this day.
FAQs
1. Why is Steve Urkel so iconic in Family Matters?
Steve Urkel became iconic because of his unique personality, hilarious catchphrases, and the ability to mix physical comedy with heartfelt moments. His transformation from an awkward nerd to a beloved character made him unforgettable.
2. What made Family Matters stand out from other 90s sitcoms?
Family Matters stood out due to its realistic portrayal of an African American family, its emotional depth, and the memorable characters, especially Steve Urkel, who became a pop culture phenomenon.
3. Was Steve Urkel originally meant to be a central character?
No, Steve Urkel was initially meant to be a one-off character but became so popular that the show’s creators expanded his role, making him a central part of Family Matters.
4. Which episode of Family Matters is the most emotional?
The most emotional episode is likely Mother’s Day, where the Winslow family deals with love, loss, and family unity, making it both heartwarming and impactful.
5. What’s the significance of Stefan Urquelle in Family Matters?
Stefan Urquelle represents Steve Urkel’s idealized, suave persona. His character was a way for Urkel to explore his insecurities and his desire to be loved for who he truly is.
