It has been 50 years since Laverne & Shirley first aired on ABC, and fans still cherish the show’s humor and heart. The spinoff from Happy Days starred Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams as Laverne DeFazio and Shirley Feeney, two endearing bottle cappers at the Schotz Brewery. While the series eventually became a classic, the cast faced uncertainty before filming even began.
Michael McKean, who portrayed Lenny Kosnowski, recalls that nervous energy vividly. Parade notes that in a recent interview with Sirius XM’s Unmasked, he shared how Cindy Williams warned the cast that the show might flop. “You know this is going to flop, but let’s have fun anyway,” Williams joked, and McKean admits that her humor helped the group relax and focus on enjoying the process.
How Michael McKean Became Lenny
Originally, Michael McKean joined the show as an apprentice writer. Producers planned to use him and David Lander, who played Squiggy, only occasionally. McKean had developed the Lenny character years earlier as part of a comedy act with Lander, and their chemistry quickly drew attention.
When filming began, producers realized Michael McKean and Lander brought a unique energy that audiences loved. They expanded Lenny and Squiggy’s roles, giving the duo regular appearances that turned them into fan favorites. McKean’s timing and improvisation helped the characters shine, making them central to the series’ enduring success.
Reflecting on the Early Days
Michael McKean remembers the first taping in front of a live audience as both terrifying and exhilarating. The cast relied on humor to ease tension, improvising when necessary, and laughing through the uncertainty of their debut. Williams’ playful warnings encouraged everyone to embrace the experience, which McKean believes contributed to the show’s charm.
Looking back, Michael McKean feels grateful for the opportunity. Playing Lenny not only launched his television career but also showcased his comedic talents in ways he never expected. The unexpected rise of Lenny and Squiggy demonstrates that even small roles can leave a lasting impact, and McKean’s work continues to be celebrated by fans today.