Before Henry Winkler became “The Fonz” and turned Happy Days into a pop culture phenomenon, another familiar face was almost cast in the role—Micky Dolenz, the drummer and voice of The Monkees. In a recent interview, Dolenz opened up about the surprising Hollywood moment that could have changed television history—and how losing the role became one of his life’s most valuable lessons.
“It’s true,” Micky shared with a smile. “I auditioned for Fonzie. I was this close.”
In the early 1970s, producers of Happy Days were searching for someone to play Arthur Fonzarelli—a street-smart, leather-jacket-wearing rebel with a heart. Micky, already a household name from his days with The Monkees, brought charm, charisma, and a sharp comedic instinct to the audition.
“But at the end of the day,” he recalled, “they told me I was just too tall.”
The part ultimately went to Henry Winkler—who, at 5’6″, brought a subtle vulnerability to the role that became legendary. And Micky? He never held a grudge.
“Henry was perfect,” Dolenz said. “The universe knows what it’s doing.”
Looking back, Micky reflected not with regret, but with gratitude. The audition came during a transitional time in his life, after The Monkees had ended and he was seeking new creative paths. Losing out on Happy Days didn’t stop him—it redirected him. He went on to voice animated series, direct television, and return to music with a renewed passion.
“I’ve always believed that the right doors open when you’re ready,” he said. “And sometimes, the ones that close? They’re doing you a favor.”
Today, fans can only imagine what Happy Days might’ve looked like with Micky Dolenz as the Fonz—but he doesn’t dwell on what might’ve been. Instead, he laughs, tips his hat to Winkler, and continues sharing the stories and songs that made him an icon in his own right.
Because whether in front of the camera or behind a drum kit, Micky Dolenz never needed a leather jacket to be cool—he just needed to be himself.