Surprising Stories from the Set of Happy Days

As Fonzie’s popularity exploded, not everyone at the network was celebrating. Some executives worried that kids might start copying his greaser image — the leather jacket, the motorcycle, the rebellious attitude. There were real concerns that he glamorized delinquency.

That fear influenced early decisions, including restrictions on his wardrobe and behavior. Over time, though, it became clear that Fonzie wasn’t a bad influence at all. He respected parents, defended friends, and often delivered the show’s moral lessons. The “dangerous” greaser turned out to be one of television’s most responsible role models.