"They Shoot Fonzies, Don't They?"



This episode is of particular note for fans of the Jodie Foster version of Freaky Friday, being shot around the same time and featuring not just a pre-Dallas Charlene Tilton (in I believe her first TV role) but Marc "Boris" McClure as the other point in the triangle.  Tilton plays Joanie's bitchy rival, who won't let her be on the cheerleading/pom-pom squad and who is her main competition in a dance marathon.  The prize is a cheesy golden foot, but with Fonzie as Joanie's partner, there are soon side bets.  I really enjoyed this episode, which I vaguely remember from the time, and it's getting the first B of the season.  

A few other observations:
  • McClure is the cute but nerdy Jimmy Bradkip here but would be Roger in "Joanie's Weird Boyfriend" the following year.  I have no idea if that's as the title character.
  • Gary Epp plays Tilton's character's brother Bubba here and would have two other HD roles later, as well as one on Laverne & Shirley.
  • I think this is the first episode where Molinaro's character is called Al rather than Alfred.
  • Potsie sings a couple songs but I actually most enjoyed Ralph singing a serious version of "The Anniversary Song."  They should've let Most sing more often.
  • There are some nice sibling moments with Richie and Joanie, and the Fonzie & Joanie friendship is developed further here.
  • It's strongly implied that Joanie was conceived when Howard was on leave from WW II.

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