MacGyver: What You Didn’t Know About The Classic Show

What Did Richard Dean Anderson Do After MacGyver?

After finishing the two follow-up movies to the series, Anderson moved on from playing MacGyver. He starred as Jack O’Neill from 1997 to 2005 in Stargate SG-1. Apparently, Anderson didn’t have to fight for the role; the president of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer called him up personally and asked him if he wanted a part in the series.

Anderson also has a charitable side. He’s an avid supporter of the Special Olympics, and has spoken at events including the 1991 opening ceremonies. He supports the Make-a-Wish Foundation and various Sclerosis societies. He’s also a part of several environmental groups. Anderson works less these days—he’s too busy playing his best part ever as a dad to his daughter.

The Happy Days Connection

How is MacGyver connected to Happy Days? By Henry Winkler, of course. The actor and producer best known for his role as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli in the classic American sitcom went on to be an executive producer on MacGyver alongside John Rich.

Without Winkler’s eye for casting, the show might look very different. When looking for a suitable actor to play the lead, Winkler and Rich felt that every actor “hulked” his way through the audition, but Richard Dean Anderson caught Winkler’s eye after an appearance on The Love Boat. He convinced Anderson to audition, and both producers thought he added a human touch to the role that other actors were missing.