Henry Winkler’s Support
Ron Howard hit the jackpot casting Keaton, but Keaton’s success might not have happened without Henry Winkler’s support. Winkler, already a TV star known for “The Fonz,” chose the quieter role deliberately. He helped Keaton steal the picture by giving him choices and suggesting ways to take comedic routines further. Despite their great on-screen chemistry, they never reunited for another film. Initially, Winkler wasn’t sure about working with Keaton, but Ron Howard reassured him that the discomfort mirrored their characters’ relationship in the film.
Big Names and the Role
Interestingly, many big names auditioned or were considered for the role of Bill Blazejowski. Kurt Russell, Mickey Rourke, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, and John Candy were all approached, but none took the part. Lowell Ganz, one of the writers, believed Keaton would be a star and pushed for him to get the role.
