This Happy Days episode was a car-crazy, drag racing moment that solidified the Fonz as the coolest cat in Milwaukee. Season 1, episode 4 is called ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Visit‘ and while some viewers have pointed out the episode leans heavily on the ending of ‘American Graffiti‘ it’s one of the greatest moments in the TV series.
In mythical Milwaukee, you’re only as cool as your ride. Ralph may be the local jokester, but he drives a 1929 Ford Model A ‘Hi-Boy’ roadster pickup. It’s got a flathead V8, a flame job and Fonzie turning wrenches on it.
Local hoodlum Skizzy is hanging out in the parking lot of Arnold’s, showing off his silver 1933 Ford hot-rod. The roadster has big V8 power, and Richie admires the ride (and Skizzy’s girlfriend). When Ralph arrives, the alpha-males start crowing about who’s car is faster. Skizzy challenges Ralpie-boy to a drag race out by the airport, but Ralph shows he’s really just a beta-male in a yellow car. He’s never raced before.
The Fonz isn’t going to let his friends get bullied, or let Skizzy play the big shot un-challenged. Fonzie announces the drag race is on, but he himself will drive Ralph’s car. It’s going to be the race of the year!
Fonzie doesn’t say much, communicating his toughness by his intimidating stare. He’s only a couple years older than Richie, Ralph and Potsie, but he is their big brother. Protector of the sheepish flock.
Later that night, Richie and Potsie sneak out of the house to watch the midnight drag race, but it all goes wrong. The cops show up and arrest Fonzie, the three boys, and even Mr. Cunningham who tried to stop the race.
This episode was shot on January 22 1974, and during filming none other than John Lennon of the Beatles dropped by to meet the Happy Days cast. Seems that his young son Julian was a fan of the show. Imagine that…the Fonz meets the Walrus.
Loved this post. Notes: Skizzy is a punk! Just look at that sneer. And who decided Ralph would look good with a little ribbon tied around his neck???
100% Susan!.
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Look at that pic of Skizzy ‘manspreading’. Arms up to his girlfriend is subjected to his B/O!.
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And about Ralph Malph…what is there to say. 50’s styles are so classic. But a shoelace as a tie? And that leather hat? I dont even know if you call that style of getting dressed in the morning with the lights off.