Steve Urkel

Steven Quincy Urkel (generally known as Steve Urkel or just simply Urkel) is a fictional character on the ABC/CBS sitcom, Family Matters, who was portrayed by Jaleel White. Originally slated to have been a one-time only character on the show, he soon became its most popular character and gradually became its protagonist.

Steve is the epitome of a geek/nerd, with large, thick eyeglasses, flood pants held up by suspenders, multi-colored cardigan sweaters, and a high-pitched voice. He professes an unrequited love for his neighbor Laura Winslow, perpetually annoys her father, Carl, and tries to befriend her brother, Eddie. Amongst the rest of the family, Harriette Winslow, Rachel Crawford and Estelle Winslow are more accepting and caring of Urkel.

Throughout the series' run, Steve is central to many of its recurring gags, primarily property damage and/or personal injury as a result of his inventions going awry or his outright clumsiness. He becomes known for several catchphrases uttered after some humorous misfortune occurs, including "I've fallen, and I can't get up!" after he accidentally got drunk and fell off the edge of a building in the episode "Life of the Party," "Did I do that?" (previously used by Curly in the 1934 Three Stooges short Punch Drunks), "Whoa, Mama!" and "Look what you did" (on those rare occasions when someone else caused the damage). Additionally, he frequently insinuates "You love me, don't you?" and "I'm wearing you down, baby. I'm wearing you down" to Laura Winslow, the usual object of his affection.