Joanie and Chachi made for a really nice couple. They appeared to be so made for each other and their characters would eventually marry. In the most adorable turn of events, the actors behind both characters themselves, Scott Baio and Erin Moran, dated during the show’s run.
While their relationship was of the on-again, off-again variety, what was cool about it was that they were able to maintain their professionalism at work. There were never any fights or tantrums on the Happy Days set, and their relationship was a not-so-well-kept secret among the rest of the cast members.
The Fonz's Original Signature Look
During the early seasons of Happy Days, when stories mainly revolved around Richie’s goody two shoe personality, “The Fonz” played a smaller role. He used to wear a windbreaker instead of the leather jacket he was famous for when he became more popular.
Since he was a cool biker and a high school dropout, director Gary Marshall felt the leather jacket was a more appropriate accessory for his character. The only fear they had was that he might appear as a hoodlum, which he wasn’t. It all worked out just fine for Fonzie though, and they soon ditched his windbreaker.
A Family Show
Through the beloved television sitcom he was responsible for, one can see that director, Garry Marshall, is a likable guy. He’s also got a mischievous streak and whenever the opportunity arose, he liked to jump into Happy Days scenes to play drums during musical moments.
We already mentioned how he liked to use names of people he knew personally for his characters. Well, Marshall also had this habit of having his family members appear in cameo roles on Happy Days. Penny Marshall is one of his sisters, and she is best known for her role as Laverne from Laverne & Shirley.
Robby Benson Couldn't be Richie
Robby Benson is known for his coming-of-age roles in shows like Jory, and Jeremy. Nowadays, his credentials are focused more on his directorial adventures. However, during the pre-production period of Happy Days, he was favored by the network to play Richie Cunningham’s role.
Robby Benson had different career plans at the time. He wasn’t into TV sitcoms because he wanted more serious roles in film. To avoid being chosen for the role, Benson (and Marshall, who was onboard with Benson’s plan) purposely messed things up during the audition to make way for Howard.
Ron Howard On Happy Days
Ron Howard’s character, Richie Cunningham, was the focal point of Happy Days, particularly in its first two seasons. His part was critical to the success of the sitcom, and from there it would be extended to nine more seasons. Richie wouldn’t remain the focus of succeeding episodes, as more characters would be added, and its style would gradually shift to a broader and more universally appealing kind of comedy.
Prior to joining the Happy Days cast, Ron Howard was known for his famous role in The Andy Griffith Show. Casting directors found his personality to be a perfect fit for the role of an innocent teenager who would always want to do what’s right for his family and friends.