Henry Winkler Says One Recurring Happy Days Guest Star Brought Ego to an Otherwise Humble Set

Henry Winkler has revealed that the Happy Days set was largely free of ego, with one exception involving a recurring guest star.

Speaking at Fanboy Expo Knoxville, Winkler said the cast worked as an ensemble and avoided discussing personal fame. He recalled that a guest actor who played Eugene repeatedly talked about his fan mail, prompting Winkler to remind him that the cast did not compare popularity. Winkler said the actor continued the behavior despite being asked to stop. The role of Eugene Belvin was played by Denis Mandel, who appeared in 10 episodes during seasons 8 and 9.

Winkler also praised former co-star Ron Howard for his professionalism. He recalled Howard calmly advising him not to take out his frustration on a script during a difficult scene, a lesson Winkler said he never forgot.

The actor said he always believed Howard would become a successful director because of his focus and ambition. Winkler later starred in Howard's 1982 film Night Shift and described him as a thoughtful leader who had the complete trust of the cast and crew.