Cory Matthews, portrayed by Ben Savage](/actor/ben-savage), is an energetic preteen from Philadelphia who faces the trials and tribulations of middle school with his signature wit and love for sports. His often chaotic relationship with the sharp-tongued neighbor and sixth-grade educator, George Feeny, frequently lands him in trouble during class. At the same time, Cory experiences a rift with his older brother, Eric, played by Will Friedle, as Eric becomes increasingly enraptured by the dating scene—an alien concept for young Cory. At home, he finds comfort within his close-knit family, consisting of his parents, Amy (played by Betsy Randle) and Alan (portrayed by William Russ), and his younger sister Morgan (brought to life by Lily Nicksay). Alongside him are his loyal friends: confidant Shawn Hunter (played by Rider Strong), the academically-inclined Stuart Minkus (portrayed by Lee Norris), and the spirited Topanga (played by [Danielle Fishel), who ignites a slow-blooming romance with Cory.
As the series unfolds, Cory, Shawn, and Topanga make their way into high school and are mentored by the unconventional Jonathan Turner (played by Anthony Tyler Quinn](/actor/anthony-tyler-quinn)). Meanwhile, Feeny steps into the role of principal, guiding his former students through the challenges of adolescence. In the third season, an emotional turning point occurs when Cory and Topanga reveal their feelings for each other and begin dating, as Eric faces the sting of rejection from various colleges and universities post-graduation. The evolving seasons see Eric rekindle his academic interests, Alan start a sporting goods store with Eric's assistance, and Amy announce her pregnancy. As Eric embarks on his college journey in the fifth season, he moves into an apartment with Jack (played by [Matthew Lawrence), who happens to be Shawn's half-brother.
Throughout the series, relationships mature: Shawn finds himself drawn to Angela (played by Trina McGee](/actor/trina-mcgee)), a new girl in school; Topanga gains acceptance to Yale University, yet opts to stay near Cory; and Amy gives birth to a premature baby boy named Joshua. By the sixth season, Cory and his friends dive into college life, where Feeny has taken a teaching position. The introduction of Rachel McGuire (portrayed by [Maitland Ward) into Eric and Jack's apartment sparks romantic tensions for both guys. As the series approaches its finale, Cory and Topanga exchange vows, and the group sets off for New York City after Topanga secures a coveted internship at a law firm.
