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Ron Howard was allegedly upset over being upstaged by Henry Winkler on ‘Happy Days’
More InfoHenry Winkler visited Inside the Actors Studio, where he discussed his time on the hit show Happy Days. Winkler played Arthur Fonzarelli, who was better known as “The Fonz” or “Fonzie.” Ron Howard was the intended star of the series, having already establishing a large fanbase from his days on the The Andy Griffith Show. But while Howard’s Richie Cunningham was well received, Winkler’s Fonzie quickly became the fan favorite. “I was supposed to be 7 out of 13, which meant I was only supposed to be in 7 out of the 13 shows each cycle,” said Winkler,” And The Fonz has taking off.” Winkler recalled one day when Howard gave him a ride home and they discussed the topic. Winkler asked Howard how he felt about losing some of his spotlight. “He said, ‘You didn't do one thing other than be good at what you're doing,” recalled Winkler “‘My feelings were hurt, but it's good for the show.’” Despite playing second fiddle to Winkler on Happy Days, Howard went on to become a prolific director. It is doubtful Howard’s feelings are still hurt, but if they are perhaps a simple glance at multiple Oscars might help.
