If you grew up in the ’90s, there’s one TV moment that probably makes you grin just thinking about it—Steve Urkel busting out his famous dance, “The Urkel.” The quirky, suspenders-wearing neighbor of the Winslow family didn’t just bring laughs; he created one of the most memorable pop culture dances of the decade.
In this article, we’re taking a nostalgic trip back to that unforgettable moment on Family Matters when Steve Urkel showed the world how to “Do the Urkel.” From its origins to its lasting impact, let’s dive into why this dance became a cultural touchstone.
Who Was Steve Urkel?
Before we get to the dance, let’s remind ourselves who Steve Urkel was. Played by Jaleel White, Urkel wasn’t originally supposed to be a main character. He was introduced as the nerdy next-door neighbor but quickly stole the show with his snorty laugh, high-pitched voice, and catchphrases like, “Did I do that?”
His popularity skyrocketed, and soon, Urkel wasn’t just a side character—he was the face of Family Matters.
The Origins of “The Urkel” Dance
So, how did “The Urkel” dance come to be? The dance first appeared in season two, episode 18, titled “Life of the Party.” In this episode, Urkel teaches his classmates how to dance at a school party. Instead of being embarrassed, his quirky moves become a hit, and soon everyone is joining in.
It was goofy, exaggerated, and awkward—just like Urkel himself. And that’s exactly what made it so charming.
Step-by-Step: How to Do “The Urkel”
Ever wanted to try it yourself? Here’s a simple breakdown of the moves that defined “The Urkel.”
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Hike up your pants like they’re almost to your chest (classic Urkel style).
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Stick out your elbows and bend them like chicken wings.
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Shuffle side to side while swinging your arms back and forth.
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Add goofy facial expressions for the full effect.
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Repeat with enthusiasm—the sillier, the better.
It was never about being smooth; it was about being unapologetically silly.
Why “The Urkel” Went Viral Before Social Media
Imagine a dance craze spreading in the pre-Instagram era. That’s what happened with “The Urkel.” Kids copied it in schools, families imitated it in living rooms, and talk shows referenced it constantly.
Back then, going viral meant word-of-mouth and playground chatter—and Urkel nailed it.
The Song That Powered the Dance
Every great dance needs a great song, right? “Do the Urkel” wasn’t just a dance—it came with its own tune. In the episode, Urkel performed the dance to a custom track, complete with lyrics like “Do the Urkel!”
This combination of music and movement sealed the deal, making the routine even more memorable.
Pop Culture’s Obsession With Urkel
Steve Urkel wasn’t just a character; he was a cultural phenomenon. From cereal boxes (yes, Urkel-Os were real!) to dolls, the nerdy neighbor became a ’90s icon. “The Urkel” dance only solidified his place in pop culture history.
Why the Dance Resonated With Fans
You might wonder, why did this silly dance resonate so much? The answer is simple: relatability. Urkel was the underdog—the nerd who never quite fit in. But when he danced, he owned it. That confidence struck a chord with viewers, especially kids who felt a little awkward themselves.
Behind the Scenes: Jaleel White’s Role
Fun fact: Jaleel White, who played Urkel, helped choreograph “The Urkel.” His natural comedic timing and willingness to look ridiculous made the dance unforgettable. He wasn’t just playing Urkel; he became Urkel.
The Legacy of “The Urkel”
Even decades later, people still remember the dance. You’ll find clips floating around YouTube, fans recreating it on TikTok, and nostalgic lists ranking it as one of the funniest TV dance moments ever.
Like the Carlton Dance from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, “The Urkel” carved out its spot in TV dance history.
Comparisons With Other Iconic TV Dances
When we think of sitcom dance moments, a few stand out:
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Carlton Banks’ arm-swinging routine.
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Elaine Benes’ hilariously bad moves on Seinfeld.
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Urkel’s “Do the Urkel” dance.
Each of these dances reflected the characters perfectly. In Urkel’s case, it was awkward yet joyful—a perfect match for his personality.
Family Matters: The Perfect Stage for Urkel
The Family Matters set was the ideal place for such a moment. The sitcom thrived on family dynamics and humor, making Urkel’s dance both funny and heartwarming. Watching everyone join him at the party scene felt like one big celebration of being yourself.
How Fans Keep the Dance Alive Today
Fast forward to today, and “The Urkel” still makes appearances. Nostalgia-driven social media posts, YouTube compilations, and even retro dance challenges keep it alive.
For millennials who grew up with the show, teaching their kids how to “Do the Urkel” is like passing down a piece of their childhood.
What Made “The Urkel” Special
Unlike polished, trendy dance moves, Urkel’s was deliberately clumsy. That’s what made it fun. It sent a message: you don’t have to be cool to enjoy yourself. Sometimes, the goofiest moves are the best ones.
The Urkel Dance in Retrospect
Looking back, “The Urkel” wasn’t just a dance—it was a cultural moment. It highlighted the power of TV to shape trends, bring people together, and give us something to laugh about decades later.
Conclusion
Steve Urkel dancing “The Urkel” on Family Matters wasn’t just a funny scene—it was a cultural phenomenon. From its silly moves to its catchy tune, the dance embodied everything fans loved about the character: awkward, unique, and unforgettable.
Decades later, it still brings smiles and nostalgia, proving that sometimes the silliest moments in TV history are the ones that stick with us forever.
FAQs
1. What episode of Family Matters featured “The Urkel” dance?
It first appeared in season two, episode 18, titled “Life of the Party.”
2. Did Jaleel White create the dance himself?
Yes, Jaleel White contributed to the choreography, making it authentically Urkel.
3. Was there a song called “Do the Urkel”?
Yes, the dance had its own original track performed in the episode.
4. Did “The Urkel” become popular outside the show?
Absolutely. It became a mini dance craze in the early ’90s, spreading through schools, parties, and media appearances.
5. Is “The Urkel” still remembered today?
Yes, it’s often ranked among the most iconic sitcom dance moments and is still shared on social media.
