Love, and the Television Set

TV Repair Man, Joanie Cunningham, Marion Cunningham, Howard Cunningham, and Richie Cunningham

## Section Header

### Season

6 (of The Nicolas Brantley Show)
3 (of Love, American Style)

### Premiere

January 26th, 1971 (as a sketch on The Nicolas Brantley Show)
February 15th, 1972 (as a sketch on Love, American Style)

### Starring

Ronnie Howard
Anson Heimlech
Tannis Montgomery

### Also Starring

Tom Bosley
Marion Ross
Erin Moran
Ric Carrott

### Featuring

Jackie Coogan
Peggy Rea
Nellie Burt
Edmund Cambridge
Maureen Cox
Virgina Gregg
Sheila Jo Guthree
Cynthia Lennon
John Lennon
Jane Asher
Mickey Wheatley
Jack McCulloch
Danny Jacobson
Jackie Burton
Richard Hurst
Cathy Silvers

"**Love, and the Television Set**" is the first created pilot for Happy Days. It originally aired as a 1971 sketch on The Nicolas Brantley Show, where it was followed by other sketches with the characters (in a series of sketches titled "The Happy Days"), and aired as a one-off 1972 sketch on Love, American Style. The episode was written by Garry Marshall and directed by Garry Nelson.

## History

This episode originated as a short film created by Garry Marshall in 1971 as a pilot for a show titled "The New Family In Town", but was rejected by ABC. In January of 1971, it premiered as a sketch that started the "The Happy Days" series (which ran on the show until November of 1973). In February of the following year, ABC aired it as a sketch on the sketch comedy show "Love, American Style". In 1973, ABC finally greenlit the series for a show (under the name, "Happy Days"), and originally planned for this episode to be the premiere, and the other episodes filmed for The New Family In Town to air first, but were cancelled from air because ABC believed that they were too different from what the new series was supposed to be.

## Synopsis

The Cunninghams are the first family on the block to get a television set. Their middle child, Richie originally wants to invite his best friend, Warren "Potsie" Weber, but ends up inviting Arlene Nestrock.

## Plot

### Act 1

We cut to the bedroom of Richie Cunningham, which is filled with images of various '50s things. Richie walks in, and laments that "Now that it's the 1950s, the world is really getting complicated". But, Richie, also proudly announces that he and his family, The Cunninghams, are going to be the first family on their block to get a television set! He also notes that his sister, Joanie, told everyone in town, but he only told his best friend, Potsie.

### Act 2

RIchie is writing lyrics to a song, when Potsie climbs through his window yelling, "Open the door, Richard!", in reference to a song of the same name. Richie greets Potsie, but notes that his mom doesn't like when Potsie climbs through the window. Potsie asks Richie if their television has arrived, and Richie tells him that it will arrive tonight, but tells Potsie that he is studying, as there is a Spanish test tomorrow. Potsie and Richie then speculate on how to pick up girls, with Potsie saying, "The only kinda girl you can pick up with Latin is a nun!", but Richie corrects him saying, "Latin is to become a doctor.". Potsie then picks up a book. Potsie then speculates about their teacher's breast size. Richie tells Potsie that he never thought about it, and Potsie calls him "square", and no one cares about social studies. Potsie lays on Richie's bed. Richie notes that all Potsie thinks about is sex. Potsie tells Richie, "Yeah, but so do you!", Richie responds with, "I know, do you think that there is something wrong with us?", and Potsie responds with, "Yeah!". Richie goes to his drawer, and Potsie gets off the bed. Potsie asks Richie if he can come over tonight to see the fight on television, and Richie tells Potsie that he'll ask his father. Potsie then notes that television will revolutionize sex, and that it's a great way to pick up girls. Richie sits back at his desk, and Potsie starts combing his hair. Potsie says that he bets that Richie will invite Arlene Nestrock. Richie asks Potsie why he thinks that, and Potsie notes that, "You're stuck on her." Richie tells Potsie that Arlene is stacked, but not very bright. Potsie is now triggered, and yells out, "You're gonna kiss her mind!? Who talks when they neck!? You don't know anything!". Richie says that he might invite Arlene over, which causes Potsie to laugh. Richie tells Potsie that he can go to "H E Double Tooth Picks", which causes Potsie to mock him.

### Act 2

We cut to Richie and Joanie in the dining room. Howard and Chuck then enter. Chuck says that he is sorry to be late, and that it was the bus' fault. Richie and Joanie greet Chuck, but Howard notes that, "Chuck, with the grades you're getting, I'm surprised they let your ass on the bus!". Marion enters, and greets Chuck. Joanie notes to Chuck that they are getting a television tonight, and Chuck tells her that he has heard. Howard says, "Yes, everyone has heard. However, no one who has heard is paying for it!". Marion and Chuck re-enter, and Howard notes to Marion that Richie sits like a snake. Howard asks Chuck to say grace. Chuck asks if Richie can say it, leading Marion to think that Chuck has a sore throat. Chuck tells Marion that the reason he doesn't want to say it is because he is questioning religion in one of his college classes. Howard is offended. Marion wants Chuck to say it, as a special favor to her. Chuck mumbles it.

### Act 3

We cut to Arthur's Drive-In, where the jukebox is playing "Put Another Nickle In (Music, Music, Music)" by Teresa Brewer. Richie and Potsie walk in to scout girls. Potsie points out Cynthia Powell, but Richie notes that she is going with John Lennon, who's got a Murc with a 3 quarter cam. Richie then points out Jane Asher. Potsie notes that Jane is really fast, and that she loves drive-ins. Then, Arlene and her friend, Corrine DeLarossa walk inside of Arthur's. Potsie wants Richie to tell Arlene that he has a television set, because, if he does, he'll be in like Flynn. Richie says no, as he doesn't want Arlene to just like him for his television set. Potsie tells Richie that Arlene will like him for everything he's got. Richie says he'll go sit with Arlene, and for Potsie to sit with Corrine. Potsie is offended. Richie wants Potsie to be a buddy. Potsie agrees. Richie tells Potsie that Corrine isn't that bad, and Potsie says, "She's terrific for a girl with a mustache!".

### Act 4

The boys walk up to Arlene and Corrine's booth. Richie sits down beside Arlene, while Potsie just stands. Richie greets Arlene. Potsie then greets an overly exited Corrine. Richie introduces himself to Arlene as "Richard Cunningham, from band practice". Arlene doesn't remember talking to him. Richie then tries to make awkward small talk. He realizes he's failing to he blurts out to Arlene, "I've got a television set!". We then cut to the dance floor, where teens are dancing, most notably, Potsie is (forcefully) dancing with Corrine, and Richie is dancing with Arlene. The song ends, and Arlene goes to change it. She changes it to, "Rock Around The Clock" by Sonny Dae and his Knights. When they go back to dancing, Richie blows in Arlene's ear, and asks her if she wants to watch television with him. She says she'd love to, and they quit dancing. Arlene and Corrine leave, and Potsie tells Richie that he is made in the shade",

### Act 5

Potsie tells Richie that he might get a date. Richie tells Potsie that they won't be any room. Potsie agrees, saying it would be too much of a hassle, and suggests coming alone. Richie tells Potsie he can't come. Potsie thinks the set is messed up. Richie tells that his father's is only allowing one guest per person, and that he's already invited Arlene. The two start to argue, and then Potsie says, "You know what, Rich? You got yourself a new television set, so go and get yourself a new best friend!", and walks out.

### Act 6

We cut to the Cunningham living room. It is being filled by Richie, Arlene, Chuck, Maureen, Joanie, Mr. Dickerson, and Aunt Betty.

### Act 7

We cut to the kitchen, Howard is on a phone call, and Marion walks in. Howard tells Marion that her cousin can't come because she is too fat, and will count as two people. Uncle Harold ais yelling at Howard. Howard is offended that there is a black man sitting in his chair, and Marion tells him that he is their mailman, and is Joanie's only friend that could stay up this late. Howard speculates about Maureen. Howard opens the door, and realizes that there is too many people.

### Act 8

The living room is filled with Howard, Marion, Aunt Betty, Mother Kelp, Richie, Arlene, Chuck, Maureen, and Mr. Dickerson. They are watching the fight. Mother Kelp thinks the boxers look like snowmen. Howard is adjusting the picture. Joanie thinks that it's snowing in Madison Square Garden. Everyone is confused, until Richie suggests that Howard try the rabbit ears. Howard agrees. The picture becomes better. Howard gets Richie to do it. Howard is gonna write a very angry letter. The television explodes.

### Act 9

Richie is walking Arlene to her apartment. Richie doesn't want to say goodnight to Arlene, and Arlene says she had a nice time. Richie tells Arlene that he's glad she came over. Richie wants a kiss from Arlene, but she doesn't French on the first date, and Richie respects her for that. Richie and Arlene kiss. Arlene tries to say goodnight, but Richie stops her. Richie wants to go on another date with Arlene, but she doesn't think so. Richie thinks he is a bad kisser. Arlene says it is because she is going steady with "Bag" Zombrowski. Richie is confused because last night, she blew in his ear. Arlene tells him she just wanted to see television. They say goodnight. Arlene tells Richie that he is a good kisser, and Richie falls down the stairs.

### Act 10

Richie walks home in the dark, where he sees a happy couple.

### Act 11

We cut to the Cunningham living room, where Chuck is leaving. Howard reminds Chuck not to forget to call Marion. As Chuck is leaving, Richie enters, and Chuck tells Richie, "Don't do anything I wouldn't do!". Marion asks Richie why he is late. Richie says that he was out walking, and goes in his room. Howard is sitting in his chair, staring at the broken TV. Marion walks up to Howard and asks him if he will continue to sit in the chair. Howard asks, "Why, does the mailman want it back!?". Marion tells Howard that Richie is upset, and that he should go talk to him.

### Act 12

We cut to Richie and Howard in Richie's room. throwing socks in the drawer. Richie tells Howard, "I really thought I was in love with Arlene. Dad, did you get jilted before you met mom?". Howard responds, "Yes, actually. As dashing as I was, when I was working in Seattle, I went head over heels for a girl, and she dumped me. I walked around many days in the rain, until I got pneumonia. That was because, when she dumped him, she also stole his rain coat. Richie laughs. Howard says, "You know, growing up is a painful experience, but, when you're an adult, you'll wanna do it all over again!" Richie says, "Well, at least Arlene didn't steal my coat!" Howard laughs. Howard says, "Oh, and, Richard, don't worry about this "Pansy" guy. If he's really your best friend, he'll come back. Goodnight son." Richie says thanks, and Howard leaves.

### Act 13

Once again, Potsie climbs through the window, this time, whistling and wearing a trench coat. Richie says, "Potsie, are you fucking stupid? It's almost midnight!" Potsie says, "Hey, did you see the fight? I saw it!" Richie says, "I didn't the TV blew up." Richie says, "Well, Potsie, what the fuck do you want?". Potsie sits down and says, "Well, I came here to tell you, I went to a bar tonight!". Richie says, "You're full of shit!". Potsie says, "No really! I got my brother's ID and went to Mulligan's. They got a TV, so I just sat there chug-a-luging beer and watching the ol' fight!". Richie playfull says, "Get out of here!" Potsie takes off his trench coat to reveal the beer, and says, "I brought it for ya!", and hands Richie the bottle of beer. Richie laughs and says, "Thanks, Potsie!" Richie drinks a sip. Potsie says, "Ay, so what's the scoop on you and Arlene!? Did you make out!?" Richie gives Potsie the bottle and says, "Well, she's going steady with Bag Zombrowski". Potsie drinks a sip and says, "Didn't you do anything?!". Richie says, "Well. we did some very heavy necking!". and takes the bottle. Richie takes a sip. Potsie says, "Where, at her house!?". Richie says, "Yup! Her folks weren't around!". Potsie says, "Really, Rich!? Tell me every detail!" Richie says, "You know, Pots, it's really getting. My parents will cuss us out if they find you here". Potsie smiles and says, "Yeah, I gotta go, see ya tomorrow!" As Potsie goes to run out the window, Richie says, "Ay, Potsie, I thought I wasn't your friend anymore!" Potsie says, "Well, I figured when it comes to chicks, all is fair. I would have done the same thing. But, let's not do it too often, okay?". Richie says, "Okay, sorry, But if you came here, you would have missed the fight, so it all worked out, right!?" Potsie says, "Yeah, because I picked up two chicks at the bar, a blonde and a redhead! I'll tell you about it tomorrow!" Potsie jumps out the window, and Richie puts the beer bottle in his drawer. Marion walks in. She says, "Richard, your father is still out there staring. Go in their and talk to him, he listens to you!"

### Act 13

We cut to the living room, where Howard is still staring at the broken TV. Richie walks in, and says, "Well, dad, you were right. Potsie came back!" Howard says, "Good-but, if he wants to be my best friend too, tell him to come in through the front door next time!". The episode ends with "God Bless America" playing on the television set, as the camera pans out, ending the episode.

## Cast

* Ronnie Howard as Richie Cunningham
* Anson Heimlech as "Potsie" Weber
* Tannis Montgomery as Arlene Nestrock

### Also Starring

* Thomas Bosley as Mr. Cunningham
* Marion Ross as Mrs. Cunningham
* Erin Moran as Joanie Cunningham
* Ric Carrott as Charles "Chuck" Cunningham

### Featuring

* Jackie Coogan as Uncle Harold
* Peggy Rea as Aunt Betty
* Nellie Burt as Mother Kelp
* Edmund Cambridge as Mr. Dickerson
* Maureen Cox as Maureen Johnson
* Virgina Gregg as Mrs. Nestrock
* Sheila Jo Guthree as Corrine DeLarossa
* Cynthia Lennon as Cynthia Powell
* John Lennon as himself
* Jane Asher as herself
* Mickey Wheatley as himself
* Jack McCulloch as Erick Johnson
* Danny Jacobson as Pat Jackson
* Jackie Burton as Debbie
* Richard Hurst as Arthur Jackson
* Cathy Silvers as Jenny Piccolo

## Locations

* The Cunningham House
* Arnold's Drive-In
* Eastchester
* Foreman and Son Apartments

## Soundtrack

1. "Sh-Boom" by The Crew Cuts (1954)
2. "Room With A View" by Noel Coward (1930s)
3. "Put Another Nickel In (Music! Music! Music!)" by Tersea Brewer
4. "(We're Gonna) Rock Around The Clock To-Night" by Sonny Dae and his Knights (1953)
5. "The Entertainer" by Scott Joplin
6. "The Wheel Of Fortune" by Kay Starr
7. "God, Bless America" by Kate Smith
8. "Put Another Nickel In (Music! Music! Music!)" by Teresa Brewer (instrumental)

## Production Staff

* Garry Marshall (writer)
* Carl Kleinschmitt (producer)
* Garry Nelson (director)

## Notes

* This episode is the first time Richie's bedroom is shown.
* Some of the posters in Richie's room are of Marilyn Monroe (actress from 1947-1962), Harry Truman (US president from 1935-1945), and James Dean (actor from 1951-1956) in a stock car.
* This episode features the first appearance of Richie Cunningham.
* This episode features the first appearance of Joanie Cunningham.
* This episode features the first appearance of Warren "Potsie" Weber.
* Potsie mentions the 1947-1957 television puppet show, "Kukla, Fran, and Ollie".
* This episode is the first time the exterior of the Cunningham house is shown.
* This episode is the first time the Cunningham dining room is shown.
* This episode features the first appearance of Howard Cunningham.
* This episode features the first appearance of Charles "Chuck" Cunningham.
* This episode features the first appearance of Marion Cunningham.
* This episode is the first time Arnold's Drive-In is shown.
* This episode is the first time "Put Another Nickel In (Music, Music, Music)" (1950) by Teresa Brewer is played. In the pitch pilot, this song was dubbed over by an instrumental version of "Jailhouse Rock" (1957) by Elvis Presley.
* The son of Kolby Adcock, a kid that Nicolas Brantley went to school with, appears in this episode.
* This episode features the first appearance of Jenny Piccolo, though most fans consider her first canon appearance to be the season 8 episode, "Hello, Jenny!".
* This episode features the first appearance of Arthur Jackson.
* This episode features the first appearance of Cynthia Powell.
* This episode features the first appearance of John Lennon.
* This episode features the first appearance of Jane Asher.
* This episode features the first appearance of Mickey Wheatley.
* This episode features the first appearance of Erick Johnson.
* This episode features the first appearance of Pat Jackson.
* This episode features the first appearance of Arlene Nestrock.
* This episode features the first appearance of Corrine DeLarossa.
* This episode features the first appearance of Debbie.
* This episode is the only time "(We're Gonna) Rock Around The Clock To-Night" (1953) by Sonny Dae and his Knights is played as background music (The only other time being as the theme song for the next episode, "The New Guy In Town"). In the pitch pilot, this song was dubbed over by an instrumental version of "Johnny B. Goode" (1958) by Chuck Berry.
* Potsie says that Richie gave him a "Pear Harbor", referencing the Pear Harbor Attack of 1941.
* This episode features the only appearance of Mr. Dickerson.
* This episode features the first appearance of Maureen Johnson.
* This episode features the only appearance of Aunt Betty in real time.
* This episode features the first appearance of Mother Kelp.
* Everyone is watching the LaMotta vs Robinson fight of 1951.
* This episode features the first appearance of Mrs. Nestrock.
* This episode is the first time "The Wheel Of Fortune" (1951) by Kay Star is played. In the pitch pilot, this song was dubbed over by an unidentified slow instrumental.
* This episode is the first time "God, Bless America" (1939) by Kate Smith is played.
* This is the first episode of the series to feature a special outro theme, that being an instrumental version of the previous "Put Another Nickel In" by Teresa Brewer.
* In the original broadcast, Erin Moran was credited as playing "little sister", but the credit was fixed to read "Erin Moran as Joanie Cunningham" when the episode was first remastered.
* This episode was originally meant to be the pilot for a series called "The New Family In Town", but the series was cancelled.
* Two clips from this episode were used as flashbacks in the season 2 episode, "Who's Sorry Now?".
* Even though this episode, along with the cancelled New Family In Town episodes never aired as Happy Days episodes, on all 2015-present DVD releases of season 1, this episode and the other New Family In Town episodes are included before the series' actual premiere ("Richie Goes All The Way").

## Gallery

Richie CunninghamRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieWarren "Potsie" WebberRichie and PotsieHoward CunninghamHowardHowardHowardHowardHowardRichie and Charles "Chuck" CunninghamRichie and ChuckRichie and ChuckRichie and PotsieRichie and PotiseArthur's Drive-InRichie and PotsieCorrine DeLarossaArlene NestrockCorrine, Potsie, Richie, and ArlenePotsie, Corrine, Richie, and ArleneArlene and RichiePotsie and RichiePotsie and RichieRichie and PotsieRichie and PotsieRichie and PotsieRichie and PotsieRichie and PotsieRichie and PotsieMarion CunninghamArlene and RichieArlene and RichieArlene and RichieRichieRichieRichieRichieRichieTV Repair Man, Joanie Cunningham, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieJoanie, Chuck, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieTV Repair Man, Joanie, Marion, Howard, and RichieJoanie and MarionHoward and RichieRichieMarionMarion