The Most Loved Couple in Family Matters: Urkel & Myra or Urkel & Laura?
Few sitcoms from the ’90s left such a lasting impression as Family Matters. Beyond its family-centered humor, slapstick comedy, and heartwarming lessons, the show had one central figure who stole the spotlight—Steve Urkel. With his suspenders, high-pitched voice, and iconic catchphrase “Did I do that?”, Urkel became a household name. But while fans laughed at his antics, they also followed his love life closely.
The burning question still remains: Who was Urkel’s true love? Laura Winslow or Myra Monkhouse? Let’s dive deep into this fan-favorite debate.
The Background of Family Matters
Family Matters aired from 1989 to 1998, following the Winslow family in Chicago. Originally intended to focus on Harriette Winslow and her family, the series quickly shifted its spotlight when audiences fell in love with Steve Urkel, the nerdy neighbor who was never supposed to be more than a side character.
With Urkel’s rise to fame came a romantic storyline that captivated audiences—a love triangle involving Laura Winslow and Myra Monkhouse.
Steve Urkel and His Unshakable Crush on Laura
From his very first appearance, Urkel’s heart was set on Laura Winslow, the beautiful, intelligent daughter of Carl and Harriette. His over-the-top devotion, endless attempts to win her heart, and refusal to give up became one of the show’s longest-running themes.
Laura, however, wasn’t always impressed. In fact, for most of the series, she was annoyed, embarrassed, and sometimes outright dismissive of Urkel’s affection.
But as seasons went on, the dynamic shifted. Slowly, Laura began to appreciate Urkel’s loyalty, kindness, and genuine heart.
Enter Myra Monkhouse: The Perfect Match?
When Myra Monkhouse came into the picture in Season 4, things changed dramatically. Unlike Laura, Myra adored Steve from the very beginning. She loved his quirks, celebrated his intelligence, and accepted him without trying to change him.
For many fans, Myra represented the perfect partner. After all, isn’t love about acceptance? She never saw Urkel as a project—she saw him as the prize.
Why Fans Loved Urkel and Laura
Despite Laura’s long resistance, there was undeniable chemistry between her and Urkel. Their relationship was a classic example of the “slow burn” romance—viewers waited season after season to see if Urkel’s persistence would finally pay off.
When Laura eventually opened her heart to Steve, it felt like a reward for fans who had been rooting for them from the start. Their love story was proof that patience, loyalty, and never giving up could actually win someone’s heart.
Why Fans Loved Urkel and Myra
On the other side of the debate, fans who rooted for Urkel and Myra argued that this couple made more sense. Unlike Laura, Myra didn’t need years to be convinced of Urkel’s worth. She was already head-over-heels for him.
Their romance was fun, geeky, and full of affection. Watching Steve finally be loved wholeheartedly was refreshing for many viewers who thought Laura never truly appreciated him.
The Love Triangle Drama
The love triangle between Urkel, Laura, and Myra gave Family Matters some of its most memorable episodes. Fans were divided, arguments sparked in living rooms, and even today, people debate which couple was better.
It wasn’t just about who was prettier or smarter—it was about values. Laura represented the challenge, while Myra represented acceptance.
Urkel’s Persistence: Romantic or Problematic?
Let’s be honest—Urkel’s endless pursuit of Laura raised eyebrows even back in the ’90s. Was it romantic, or was it too much? Some argue that his persistence was a testament to true love. Others feel that it sent the wrong message about boundaries.
Still, the writers clearly intended it to be a quirky, exaggerated form of devotion, and audiences ate it up.
Laura Winslow’s Growth
At first, Laura saw Urkel as nothing more than an annoying nerd. But over time, she recognized his big heart. Laura’s acceptance of Steve symbolized personal growth. She learned to look beyond appearances and value character over popularity.
Myra’s Downfall
While Myra started out as the sweet, loving girlfriend every parent would approve of, her character later took on obsessive tendencies. Her jealousy and possessiveness eventually made her less appealing to audiences. Sadly, her love went from charming to unhealthy, shifting fan opinions over time.
The Writers’ Choice
By the end of Family Matters, the writers made their decision clear—Steve Urkel and Laura Winslow ended up together. In the series finale, Steve proposes to Laura, sealing their romance as the show’s ultimate love story.
This choice cemented Urkel and Laura as the “official” couple, even though fans still argue about whether it was the right call.
The Fan Divide
Ask any longtime fan today, and you’ll find divided opinions. Some will swear Urkel and Myra were the healthier, more natural match. Others believe Laura was always destined to be his true love.
This division is exactly why the debate lives on decades after the show ended.
Which Couple Was More Popular?
If we go by long-term popularity and cultural impact, Urkel and Laura take the crown. Their love story was central to the show and remains iconic in sitcom history.
However, for many fans, Myra’s unconditional love left an equally strong impression. She proved that sometimes the best relationship is the one where you’re loved exactly as you are.
Why This Debate Still Matters
It’s been over two decades since Family Matters ended, yet the Urkel-Laura-Myra love triangle is still a hot topic. Why? Because it represents something universal—choosing between someone who challenges you to grow and someone who loves you just as you are.
That’s a dilemma people still face in real life, making the debate timeless.
My Take: Who Was Best for Urkel?
If you ask me, Myra was the better match in terms of unconditional love. But when it comes to storytelling, drama, and long-term satisfaction, Laura was the right choice. Their relationship had struggles, setbacks, and eventual triumph—just like real love often does.
Conclusion
So, who was the most loved couple in Family Matters? The answer depends on what you value most in a relationship. If you believe love should be about total acceptance, then Urkel and Myra win. If you believe love is about persistence, growth, and finally earning someone’s heart, then Urkel and Laura are the ultimate couple.
Either way, one thing is clear: Steve Urkel’s love story kept millions of viewers invested, and that’s why we’re still talking about it today.
FAQs
1. Did Steve Urkel end up with Laura or Myra?
Steve Urkel ended up with Laura Winslow. In the series finale, he proposed to her, making them the official couple.
2. Why did Laura finally fall for Urkel?
Laura realized that Urkel’s loyalty, kindness, and love were genuine. Over time, she saw beyond his quirks and valued his true character.
3. Was Myra Monkhouse a good girlfriend?
Yes, at first Myra was an excellent partner—she loved Urkel unconditionally. However, her obsessive behavior later in the series made her less ideal.
4. Did fans prefer Urkel with Myra or Laura?
Fans were divided. Many loved the natural chemistry with Myra, while others rooted for the slow-burn romance with Laura.
5. Why is this love triangle still talked about today?
Because it reflects a universal question in relationships: Do you choose the person who loves you as you are, or the one you fight to win over?
