The Evolution of Happy Days: How Fonzie's Role Transformed the Show

The Early Seasons

Happy Days stars Ron Howard and Henry Winkler have opened up about their reactions to how the show changed Fonzie's role in later seasons. Howard starred in the sitcom's early seasons as Richie Cunningham, while Winkler portrayed then-side character Arthur Fonzarelli, also called Fonzie. Because his character became a breakout hit, he was upgraded to a series regular in season 2, before befriending Richie in season 3.

Henry Winkler as Fonzie in Happy days jumping the shark

Speaking with The New York Times, Howard and Winkler recalled the decision to give Fonzie more focus compared to other Happy Days cast members in later seasons. They discussed how they had to talk the studio out of shifting the focus of the show to the popular character, which almost saw Howard leave the series early.

The Evolution of Fonzie's Role

Howard and Winkler's fight to ensure everyone on Happy Days was still a key focus of the series may have added to its longevity, airing through season 11. However, following season 7, Howard started making movies as a director, leaving the show and making Fonzi the main character. The show's survival for another four seasons indicates just how popular the character was with audiences at the time.

Howard returned to Happy Days in a season 11 guest appearance. Because of his cool attitude, catchphrases like 'Ayyy!', and signature leather jacket, the Fonz is a highly recognizable character from sitcom history. However, by tempering the focus so other characters still held the spotlight, the show was able to expand his role while still maintaining the heart of its earlier seasons. Without its lead actors coming together to push for their vision of the show, it may not have lasted as long as it did.

Legacy and Success

Following their roles on Happy Days, both stars went on to form successful careers. Howard became a director of hit films like A Beautiful Mind and The Da Vinci Code, while Winkler has had a key role on the cast of Barry and Arrested Development among others. Given the successful trajectory of their careers, deciding to push back against Fonzie becoming the show's namesake was a defining decision for both of them.

The New York Times Source: The New York Times