Henry Winkler and Ron Howard had a reunion at the 2024 Emmys in honor of the 50th anniversary of their hit sitcom, “Happy Days.” During the awards show, the two appeared on a set that resembled the iconic Arnold’s Drive-In from the show, complete with a vintage jukebox. Howard, who played Richie Cunningham, and Winkler, who played Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli, marveled at the set, with Howard joking that their theme song was not played during their introduction. Winkler then recreated one of Fonzie’s signature moves by banging on the jukebox to get it to play the “Happy Days” theme song.
The “Barry” alum admitted to being out of practice before attempting the move, prompting Howard to encourage him by reminding him of his training at the Yale School of Drama. Winkler then shrugged his shoulders like Fonzie and successfully got the jukebox to play the theme song. The crowd erupted into applause, with Howard commending Winkler for his performance. The ensemble cast of “Happy Days” also included Tom Bosley, Marion Ross, Erin Moran, Scott Baio, and Anson Williams. The show premiered in 1974 and ran for 11 seasons.
Although their appearance at the Emmys served as an official reunion for “Happy Days,” Howard and Winkler have remained close friends over the years. Howard praised their bond in an interview, stating that they immediately bonded and became great friends when they first met. The ensemble cast of the show got along well, contributing to the show’s success. The two friends even met up earlier in the year when they both happened to be in Australia. Winkler shared a photo of their reunion on social media after Howard came to support him during a book tour for his memoir, “Being Henry: The Fonz…and Beyond.”
The reunion of Howard and Winkler at the Emmys reflected the enduring legacy of “Happy Days” and the impact the show had on both the cast and viewers. The show remains a beloved classic, with fans appreciating the heartwarming and humorous adventures of the Cunningham family and their friend, Fonzie. Howard and Winkler’s friendship has stood the test of time, with their bond continuing to be strong after all these years. The success of “Happy Days” can be attributed to the talented ensemble cast, including Howard and Winkler, who brought the characters to life and made them memorable.
The reunion at the Emmys also highlighted the nostalgia that the show evokes for fans who grew up watching “Happy Days” during its original run. The series captured the essence of the 1950s and early 1960s, appealing to audiences of all ages with its timeless themes of friendship, family, and coming of age. Howard and Winkler’s portrayal of Richie and Fonzie resonated with viewers, who felt a connection to the characters and their adventures in suburban Milwaukee. The show’s enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal and the lasting impact it has had on popular culture.
Overall, the reunion of Howard and Winkler at the Emmys was a heartwarming moment that celebrated the legacy of “Happy Days” and the lasting friendship between the two actors. Their reunion brought smiles to fans of the show, who fondly remember the adventures of Richie, Fonzie, and the rest of the gang at Arnold’s Drive-In. Howard and Winkler’s chemistry on and off-screen contributed to the success of the show, making it a classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. The Emmys reunion served as a joyful tribute to the iconic series and the talented individuals who made it a beloved part of television history.
