
Henry Winkler Shot Down ABC's Plan to Rename 'Happy Days' After Fonzie
Sep 14, 2026

Star file
sitcom · television series
Also known as Fonzie's Happy Days
3 stories · latest Sep 14, 2026 · TV & Film, Celebrity
Happy Days is a classic American television sitcom that became a major hit during the 1970s. The show featured popular characters such as Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli, played by actor Henry Winkler, and helped launch or highlight the careers of several notable television stars.
During the height of the show's popularity in the 1970s, network executives at ABC proposed rebranding the series as Fonzie's Happy Days to capitalize on the character's massive fan following. Winkler turned down the proposal immediately, refusing to allow network bosses to alter the title or turn the ensemble sitcom into a solo showcase at the expense of his co-stars.
Decades after its original run, the sitcom remains a frequent topic of entertainment news through its alumni. Stories centered on the series cover nostalgic reflection from stars like Winkler—who recalled guest appearances on network TV by a young Tom Hanks in the early 1980s—as well as news surrounding cast members such as Anson Williams, who faced court filings over post-divorce financial disputes.
The Happy Days shelf

Aug 19, 2026
Jackie Williams filed court documents alleging former Happy Days star Anson Williams owes tens of thousands of dollars following their divorce.
'Happy Days' Star Anson Williams Accused By Ex-Wife Of Owing Tens Of Thousands
Sep 9, 2026
Henry Winkler addressed lingering tension with Tom Hanks dating back to guest appearances in the early 1980s.
Henry Winkler Breaks Down His Decades-Long Tension With Tom Hanks
Sep 14, 2026
Henry Winkler revealed he rejected ABC network attempts in the 1970s to rename the sitcom Fonzie's Happy Days.
Henry Winkler Shot Down ABC's Plan to Rename 'Happy Days' After FonzieNetwork executives proposed rebranding the series as Fonzie's Happy Days during the 1970s, but star Henry Winkler rejected the plan to protect his co-stars.
Arthur 'Fonzie' Fonzarelli was portrayed by actor Henry Winkler.
Tom Hanks made guest appearances on network television shows alongside Happy Days stars in the early 1980s before becoming a major film actor.
Anson Williams faced court filings from his ex-wife Jackie Williams, who alleged he owes tens of thousands of dollars in unsettled payments from their marriage dissolution.