I am a huge fan of That 70s Show. Last summer, I watched all 8 seasons three times in a row. I attempted the same this summer, but got easily bored. Looking for nostalgia for the times I never lived in, I decided to watch Happy Days, something that was heavily referenced in That 70s Show. As I watched, I began to notice some similarities that make Happy Days a must watch for any That 70s Show fan.
The Cunninghams Are The Formans
Both the Cunninghams and the Formans families consist of a mom and dad, a brother who is the show's main character, and a sassy sister that always talks back. Also in both shows, the fathers face financial issues after losing their jobs, which cause both families to resort to desperate measures to help provide for the family.
The Characters Are Similar
In Happy Days, a favorite character was the cool and laid back Arthur Fonzarelli. His That 70's Show equivalent is Steven Hyde. A similar rebellious character that doesn't play by the rules. Interestingly, in both shows, the Fonz and Hyde move into the houses of the main family, essentially becoming brother-figures to both Richie Cunningham and Eric Forman.
Richie and Joanie Cunningham resemble Eric and Laurie Forman. Both sets of siblings loved each other at heart, but still acted very sarcastic and rude toward one another.
The characters of Potsie and Ralph in Happy Days also mirror Kelso and Fez in That 70s Show. Both are best friends who aren't always the smartest and are best friends with the main character.
Both Shows Share The Same Format
Happy Days first aired in the 1970s, however, the show was set in the 1950s, 20 years earlier. In a similar fashion, That 70s Show aired in the 1990s, but was set 20 years prior. Perhaps we will one day get a nostalgic show that is set in the 1990s... Here's hoping!
They're Both Set In Wisconsin
Knowing that both shows are similar in concept, it's no question that That 70s Show was set in Wisconsin. It's obviously a nod to Happy Days, although Happy Days is set in Milwaukee and That 70s Show is set in the fictional city of Point Place.
Both Shows Share A Common Hangout
In Happy Days, characters would hang out at Arnold's Drive-In, a local restaurant where the kids would eat, dance and hangout. Other than the Cunningham house, most of the show is filmed at Arnold's. In a similar fashion, in That 70s Show, characters hang out at The Hub, a small burger joint where the cast would often convene when not in Eric's basement.
If you haven't yet seen Happy Days, I highly recommend it. It will satisfy any That 70s Show fan... that is until Fonzie "jumps the shark". However, if you remember who Randy Pearson is, then you'll understand how viewers felt when Fonzie attempted such a stunt.
