Henry Winkler Debunks ‘Laverne & Shirley’ Stars ‘Nightmare’ Rumors
Henry Winkler has recently addressed long-standing rumors about reported tensions between co-stars Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams during the filming of their iconic sitcom, Laverne & Shirley. This popular show premiered on January 27, 1976, as a spinoff of Happy Days. It followed the lives of two beer factory workers in Milwaukee, with Marshall portraying Laverne DeFazio and Williams as Shirley Feeny.
Debunking the Nightmare Rumors
Initially, various reports suggested that there was drama behind the scenes of Laverne & Shirley. Author Marley Brant noted in her book, Happier Days: Paramount Television’s Classic Sitcoms, 1974-1984, that Williams allegedly walked off set two months into the series due to feeling overshadowed by Marshall’s character. Williams herself expressed her dissatisfaction in a 1977 interview with TV Guide, stating that the “terrific part” she was promised had vanished.
Moreover, it was rumored that the co-stars’ disputes were audible to the cast of Happy Days, who filmed on an adjacent soundstage. Winkler, known for his role as Fonzie on Happy Days, refuted these claims during an appearance on Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal podcast. He clarified, “No, that’s not true,” when questioned about whether the show was a “nightmare.”
The Truth About Their Dynamic
Winkler reminisced about the chemistry between Marshall and Williams, emphasizing their unique comedic partnership. He noted, “They were so connected in their humor and so yin and yang.” He fondly recalled how the duo presented some of the best slapstick comedy in television history.
Despite occasional differences, both actresses were dedicated to their craft. Williams described Marshall as a “taskmistress,” acknowledging that although they had arguments, these did not interfere with their performances. She appreciated their intuitive connection on stage, saying, “It was like [an] instinct with her, like telepathy.”
Conversely, Marshall regarded Williams as a cherished friend and expressed that their personalities, while different, complemented each other well. In her words, “There would be squabbles, but in the end, the entire experience was such a blessing and so much fun.”
Legacy of Laverne & Shirley
Laverne & Shirley ran for eight successful seasons, concluding on May 10, 1983. However, Williams departed the show in 1982, and the series struggled to maintain its momentum afterward. Following the cancellation, the relationship between the two actresses remained strong, despite the challenges faced during filming.
Penny Marshall passed away in 2018 at the age of 75, and Cindy Williams followed in January 2023, also at the age of 75. Their legacy continues to live on through their influential work and the beloved characters they portrayed.
