Ep 12. Morticia, the Matchmaker

Morticia, the Matchmaker is the twelfth episode of the first season of the iconic television show The Addams Family. The episode opens with Morticia, played by Carolyn Jones, musing about the perfect match for her friend Ophelia Frump. Morticia decides that her brother-in-law Uncle Fester, played by Jackie Coogan, would be the perfect match for Ophelia.

Morticia convinces Ophelia to go out on a date with Uncle Fester, but the date is a disaster. Uncle Fester spends the entire date talking about his inventions and ignores Ophelia's attempts at conversation. Morticia is undeterred and decides to play Cupid to make the relationship work.

Morticia enlists the help of Gomez, played by John Astin, to teach Uncle Fester how to be a gentleman. Together they teach him how to dance, how to be charming, and how to dress like a gentleman. Meanwhile, Morticia coaches Ophelia on how to get Uncle Fester's attention and make him fall in love.

When the new and improved Uncle Fester turns up for their second date, things seem to be going well. He is charming and attentive to Ophelia. But things take a turn for the worse after Gomez and Morticia accidentally give Uncle Fester a love potion.

Uncle Fester becomes hopelessly infatuated with Ophelia, much to her horror. He becomes overly possessive and clingy. Morticia and Gomez realize their mistake and try to intervene, but Uncle Fester is determined to make Ophelia his bride.

The situation becomes even more complicated when Ophelia's mother, Hester Frump, played by Margaret Hamilton, arrives. Hester is horrified by Uncle Fester and vehemently opposes the relationship. She threatens to disown Ophelia if she marries Uncle Fester.

Morticia takes matters into her own hands and concocts an antidote to the love potion. She gives it to Uncle Fester, and he immediately snaps out of his trance. He realizes the error of his ways and apologizes to Ophelia.

The episode ends with Morticia reflecting on the difficulties of love. She muses that sometimes the perfect match isn't so perfect after all.

Overall, Morticia, the Matchmaker is a classic episode of The Addams Family. It blends humor, romance, and a touch of the macabre to create a memorable viewing experience. The episode is an excellent showcase of the chemistry between the cast members and the talent of the writers and directors behind the scenes.