Let’s take a trip down memory lane to the 1970s, when one of the biggest shows on television was none other than "Happy Days." Running on ABC from 1974 to 1984, this iconic sitcom captured the hearts of millions. Over its 11 seasons, it evolved from a nostalgic glimpse into 1950s life to a hilarious and sometimes wacky series centered around the unforgettable characters of Henry Winkler’s Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli and Ron Howard’s Richie Cunningham. But as wild as things got, there was always one constant—a grounding force—that kept the show rooted in reality: Marion Ross as Richie’s mom, Marion Cunningham, or as the Fonz affectionately called her, "Mrs. C."
A Life in Retrospect: Marion Ross' Autobiography
Marion Ross recently penned her autobiography, titled "My Days: Happy and Otherwise," offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at her incredible life and career. This book provided the perfect opportunity for a heartfelt chat between Marion and the CloserWeekly.com Classic TV Podcast. Born on October 25, 1928, in Watertown, Minnesota, Marion grew up with dreams of becoming an actress, inspired by her mother's unwavering belief in her abilities. Her journey began in the 1950s when she made her big-screen debut in the 1953 film "Forever Female," starring alongside legends like Ginger Rogers and William Holden. Her career quickly took off with roles in films such as "The Glenn Miller Story," "Sabrina," "Lust for Life," and "Lizzie." Alongside these film appearances, she also landed the role of an Irish maid in the stage adaptation of "Life With Father," further cementing her place in Hollywood.
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(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
The Journey to 'Happy Days'
Marion’s path to becoming the beloved Marion Cunningham began with a casting call from none other than Garry Marshall, the mastermind behind hits like "The Odd Couple," "Laverne & Shirley," and "Mork & Mindy." She was initially cast as Marion in an episode of the romantic comedy anthology series "Love, American Style," which eventually spun off into "Happy Days." Interestingly, in that original episode, Harold Gould portrayed Howard Cunningham. However, when the show transitioned into a full series, Tom Bosley took over the role of Howard, and as Marion reveals in her autobiography, Tom wasn’t exactly a fan of hers at first. But over time, their professional relationship blossomed into a lasting friendship.
Marion Ross: The Storyteller
There’s so much more to Marion Ross’s story, and fortunately for us, she’s the one telling it. Her autobiography dives deep into her life, from her humble beginnings in Minnesota to her illustrious career in Hollywood. It’s a tale of perseverance, passion, and the incredible journey of a woman who became one of the most beloved figures in television history. So, whether you’re a die-hard "Happy Days" fan or just someone who appreciates a good story, Marion Ross’s "My Days: Happy and Otherwise" is a must-read.
