Happy Days (1974)

Happy Days

TV-G

Comedy

Release Date: January 15, 1974
Cast: Henry Winkler , Marion Ross , Tom Bosley , Anson Williams , Don Most , Scott Baio , Ted McGinley
Main Genre: Sitcom
Seasons: 11
Creator: Gary Marshall
Distributor: CBS Television Distribution
Main Characters: Richie Cunningham, Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli, Howard Cunningham, Marion Cunningham, Potsie Weber, Ralph Malph, Joanie Cunningham, Chachi Arcola
Producer: William Bickley, Michael Warren, Anthony W. Marshall, Ronny Hallin, Fred Fox, Jr.
Production Company: Miller-Milkis Productions, Henderson Production Company, Inc., Miller-Milkis-Boyett Productions, Paramount Television
Number of Episodes: 255

Summary

Happy Days began in 1974 as an ABC sitcom recalling Milwaukee adolescence in the 50s, albeit behind a pair of ruby-tinted glasses. Ron Howard played all-American redheaded teen Richie Cunningham, son of Howard and Marion, navigating chaste pubescent girl-crazy life, often mentored by charming greaser Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli. The latter proved to be the show's undisputed breakout, though George Lucas would reportedly cast Howard as a lead in his sophomore feature American Graffiti based on his performance in the pilot. The show would ultimately run 11 seasons and spawn two crucial spin-offs: Laverne & Shirley and Mork & Mindy.