Origin of a Classic: Love & The Television Set, or, Love & The Happy Days (Love, American Style, 1972)

 As Happy Days turns 50 this year, let's take a look back at the pilot, which aired on Love, American Style in 1972.

Originally titled, "Love & The Television Set" when it first aired, the episode was retitled, "Love & The Happy Days" in syndication. Only three cast members carried over when the series premiered in the winter of 1974: Ron(ny) Howard (The Smith Family), Marion Ross, & Anson Williams. Harold Gould was cast as Howard Cunningham, but due to conflicting commitments wasn't available when the series was ready. Susan Neher (ex-To Rome With Love, Getting Together) was cast as Joanie. Ric Carrott was cast as Chuck, who wound up disappearing for good after two more actors were cast in the 1st two seasons of Days.

Jackie Coogan (ex-The Addams Family) & Peggy Rea co-star.

Ric Carrott wouldn't get his break until 5 years later, in the Saturday morning sci-fi series, Space Academy, then was never heard from again. Harold Gould would land a primetime gig before that (The Feather & Father Gang, a 1 season dud). Peggy Rea would later recur on The Dukes of Hazzard. Once Happy Days went to series, the producers did away with Richie's off-camera narration.

Rating: A-.