"Richie's Car"




Although this episode aired on September 17th, it's clearly set before "Richie Moves Out," since it contains Richie's first couple dates with Gloria.  Also, Richie and Potsie buying a "heap" is supposed to have happened "last year," whenever that was.  We can see the dynamic between Richie and Fonzie starting to shift in the second season, with them more like equals, as Richie stands up to the Fonz, rather than just acting in awe of his cooler friend.  And there's a nice outdoor scene of Richie driving around the neighborhood, Potsie up front, Ralph in the back.  Furthermore, I should note that Richie seems to be a better kisser than he was in Season One, and generally not quite as stunted and awkward.

A couple casting notes:
  • We finally see Fonzie's boss, "Happy," but this would not be a recurring character.
  • Lew Horn is Officer Marlow here and would later be Hinstead.

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