The Family Matters We Didn’t Get To See
Family Matters was one of the most iconic sitcoms of the ’90s, known for its quirky characters, heartfelt lessons, and, of course, Steve Urkel’s unforgettable catchphrases. But like many long-running TV shows, it left a trail of unresolved storylines that still leave fans scratching their heads.
Despite running for nine seasons and 215 episodes, the show wrapped up with more loose ends than a bowl of spaghetti. Curious? Let’s dive into the ten most compelling plotlines Family Matters left hanging—and what might’ve happened if the writers had tied them up.
1. The Disappearance of Judy Winslow
What Happened to Judy Winslow?
One day she was there… and then she wasn’t. Judy Winslow, the youngest daughter of Carl and Harriette, vanished from the show in season four and was never mentioned again.
The Real-Life Reason
Actress Jaimee Foxworth was written off for budget reasons, but the show never offered an in-universe explanation. Judy’s bedroom didn’t become a shrine, no photos lingered—it’s like she never existed.
2. Steve Urkel’s Transformation into Stefan Urquelle
Split Personality or Just Sci-Fi Fun?
Steve Urkel created a machine to transform himself into the suave Stefan Urquelle. But the science behind this was never explained, and the ethical implications were brushed aside.
Did Stefan Ever Really “Exist”?
At times, Stefan was treated like a separate person. At other times, he seemed like just another side of Steve. The writers never clarified if this was a sci-fi split or a personality projection.
3. The Fate of Myra Monkhouse
Steve’s Other Love Interest
Before Laura finally accepted Steve, he was in a long-term relationship with Myra. She was obsessed with him—sometimes to a creepy degree.
Unresolved Jealousy and Obsession
When Steve left her for Laura, Myra went from jilted lover to borderline stalker. Then… poof. No closure, no goodbye, no character arc completed.
4. The Missing Winslow Relatives
What Happened to Rachel and Richie?
Rachel (Harriette’s sister) and her son Richie were central in early seasons. But as Steve became the focal point, these characters were seen less often.
They Just… Faded Away
No major plot explained their disappearance. They were slowly phased out and, like Judy, never mentioned again.
5. The House That Defied Time and Space
Ever Wonder How the Winslows Fit Everyone in That House?
There were too many characters living under one roof for the layout we saw. It didn’t add up—unless there was a secret wing off-camera.
Plot Convenience Over Logic
It’s a small thing, sure, but long-time fans noticed. The geography of the Winslow home seemed to change depending on the scene’s needs.
6. Eddie’s College Career—Or Lack Thereof
Eddie Had Dreams Once
Eddie Winslow started off college-bound and ambitious. For a while, the show followed his college life. Then the storyline just… stopped.
So Did He Graduate or Not?
There’s no resolution. He ends up working for the police in the final season, but how he got there remains vague.
7. Harriette’s Job Changes and Personality Shift
From Elevator Operator to Office Manager
Harriette was a strong, confident working mom in the early seasons. But midway through, she changed jobs—and personalities.
The Actress Swap That Changed Everything
When Jo Marie Payton left and was replaced by Judyann Elder, Harriette became more subdued. Her job role was unclear, and her storyline fizzled.
8. Carl and Steve’s Police Work
Steve Became a Cop… Somehow?
In later episodes, Steve ends up working with Carl in the police force. Did he get training? Graduate from a program?
Where’s the Academy Episode?
Instead of watching Steve earn his stripes, we were dropped into scenes of him working undercover. It was funny, but baffling.
9. The Final Cliffhanger
Season 9 Ends With Steve in Space
Yes, literally. Steve gets sent to space in the final season. The show ends before resolving whether he comes back or not.
Canceled Before the Ending
CBS canceled the show before airing a proper series finale, leaving fans with a cliffhanger that’s never been resolved—even decades later.
10. Laura and Steve’s Engagement
They Got Engaged… Then What?
Steve finally won Laura’s heart. They got engaged in the final season, but we never see a wedding, or even plans for one.
Did They Actually Get Married?
Because of the abrupt ending, the fate of their relationship is left in limbo. Fans were invested, but never got the payoff.
The Impact of Unresolved Storylines
Why These Unfinished Arcs Still Matter
Family Matters built a rich universe with quirky characters and heartfelt moments. When you invest years into watching a show, loose ends feel personal.
Fan Theories and What-Could-Have-Beens
Judy Winslow Entered the Witness Protection Program?
Okay, maybe not—but fans have come up with dozens of fun (and dark) theories to explain the dropped characters.
What Could a Reboot Fix?
Time for a Comeback?
A reboot could resolve these stories, bring back beloved characters, and tie up loose ends in ways that satisfy both old and new fans.
Final Thoughts: A Nostalgic Mess Worth Loving
Despite its many flaws and plot holes, Family Matters remains beloved. Its charm wasn’t in tight storytelling, but in heart, humor, and the way it made us feel like part of the Winslow family—even if we didn’t always get the full story.
FAQs
1. Why was Judy Winslow written off the show?
She was removed for budgetary reasons, and producers felt her character wasn’t essential to the show’s direction.
2. Did Steve Urkel and Laura Winslow ever get married?
They got engaged in the final season, but the series ended before their wedding could be shown.
3. What happened to Richie and Rachel?
They were slowly phased out without explanation as the show’s focus shifted to Steve Urkel.
4. Was there ever a proper series finale for Family Matters?
No, the show was canceled before a proper ending could be filmed or aired.
5. Could a Family Matters reboot happen?
It’s possible. With reboots of many ’90s shows happening, a Family Matters revival could give closure to these unresolved arcs.
