Nostalgic Facts About The Making Of The Wonder Years
In 1988, the iconic series The Wonder Years made its debut on television, captivating audiences and maintaining its appeal to this day. Set in the 1960s, the show served as a launchpad for the careers of renowned actors such as Fred Savage, Danica McKellar, and more.
Narrated from the perspective of Kevin Arnold, played by Savage, this coming-of-age narrative garnered acclaim for its outstanding writing and profound impact on the entertainment industry. Here are some lesser-known facts about The Wonder Years.
A Memorable First Kiss
In the pilot episode of The Wonder Years, Kevin Arnold and his love interest Winnie Cooper share their first kiss. Fans may not be aware that this was actually both of the actors' first kiss as well.
Fred Savage was 11 years old at the time, while Danica McKellar was 12 years old. Savage still remembers the scene being "terrifying." McKellar said, "We were both really scared and nervous and didn't know what was going to happen or if we were going to do it right."
Sisters Almost Landed The Same Role
Danica McKellar frequently found herself in competition with her sister, Crystal McKellar, for various acting roles, including the coveted part of Winnie Cooper. The decision came down to the two sisters, and, in the end, Danica was selected just a day before filming started.
The determining factor was reportedly the color of their hair, as Crystal had lighter hair at the time. Despite not landing the role of Winnie, Crystal had her own silver lining, as she was offered the recurring part of Becky Slater.
Karen's Hair Wasn't Real
The portrayal of Kevin's older sister, Karen, by actress Olivia D'Abo was a striking departure from the actress's real-life persona. Despite being born in London, D'Abo's family later relocated to Los Angeles.
In contrast, Karen's character is depicted as an anti-war feminist with a wardrobe reminiscent of the hippie era. To authentically capture the look, D'Abo wore hair extensions to create the appearance of long and unkempt hair. D'Abo would also wear a lot of hippie-esque clothing, such as headbands and tie-dye shirts.
The Series Won An Emmy Award
Within a mere six-episode first season, The Wonder Years skyrocketed to immense popularity, earning critical acclaim. It reminded audiences of the innocence of youth during a memorable period in history. In 1988, the show clinched an Emmy for Most Outstanding Comedy Series.
Notably, Fred Savage, at the tender age of 13, emerged as the youngest actor ever nominated for an Emmy in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series category. This remarkable achievement was repeated in 1990 with another nomination.
The Show's Town Was Never Mentioned
The actual setting of The Wonder Years remains a mystery. Although the script suggests a setting in Burbank, California, the series never explicitly confirms the location. Consequently, fans have undertaken efforts to debunk this speculation by scouring episodes for clues that might indicate a different setting.
Despite these endeavors, no evidence has been discovered to pinpoint the show's location to a specific city or general area. However, fans can still visit the Burbank house, where many of the exterior shots were filmed.
There Were Great Guest Stars
Over the course of its airing, The Wonder Years featured numerous guest appearances by celebrities who were relatively unknown at the time, contributing significantly to their career boosts.
Among the notable names that graced the series were Juliette Lewis, Jim Caviezel, David Schwimmer, Alicia Silverstone, Giovanni Ribisi, Robin Thicke, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, John Corbett, and even Fred Savage's younger brother, Ben Savage, who made an early appearance long before his tenure on Boy Meets World. Ben would start his series the year after The Wonder Years ended.
The Cast's Mothers Bonded Quickly
Although the cast of The Wonder Years has maintained their connections, it's the mothers of the show's young stars who forged an enduring friendship. Since minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on set, it gave the mothers on The Wonder Years a chance for connection.
Joanne Savage, Mahalia McKellar, Marsha Hervey, and Jane Saviano, having spent considerable time together on set, formed a bond that has outlasted the duration of the show. Remarkably, they continue to gather and nurture their friendship to this day.
The Idea Of The Show Came From A Christmas Story
The Wonder Years holds a little-known connection to the classic holiday film A Christmas Story as a source of inspiration. The show's creators drew influence from the coming-of-age narrative of the movie and endeavored to craft their own unique story.
Embracing certain similarities, including a comparable narration style, The Wonder Years went on to achieve cultural phenomenon status. Notably, Peter Billingsley, known for his role as Ralphie in A Christmas Story, makes a cameo appearance in the final two episodes, portraying Kevin's roommate.
The Show Started A Revolution
The Wonder Years isn't just a cult classic; it stands out as a revolutionary contribution to the television industry. Employing a narrator instead of a laugh track was a groundbreaking choice, especially considering it was virtually unheard of at the time.
Moreover, it pioneered the use of a single-camera setup in sitcom filming, departing from the established norm of a multi-camera setup that prevailed before the show's inception. Now, single-camera shows are the norm in the television industry, which can be seen in Arrested Development, New Girl, and 30 Rock.
Finding The Perfect Kevin Arnold
Selecting the lead actor for the role of Kevin turned out to be a smoother process than anticipated. Although casting a child actor is inherently challenging, producers Carol Black and Neal Marlens enlisted the help of multiple casting directors.
Surprisingly, all five directors consulted unanimously recommended Fred Savage for the role. At that time, he was most recognized for his performance in The Princess Bride. He can be seen as the grandson who is sick in bed while the grandfather reads him a story.
The Show Aired Right After The 1988 Super Bowl
The Wonder Years pilot made a strategic debut after the 1988 Super Bowl, leveraging the massive viewership to launch the series. This move proved ingenious, capturing the attention of millions. The coming-of-age tale, narrated by an adult, Kevin Arnold, resonated with audiences, drawing them into the nostalgic journey of adolescence.
The post-Super Bowl airing became a pivotal moment, catapulting the show to immediate success and setting the stage for its enduring impact on popular culture. According to NBC News, it was watched by 29 million households.
The Dialogue Was What The Actors Said In Real Life
In the creative process of The Wonder Years, it was common for writers to incorporate snippets of real conversations overheard on the set. Leveraging Fred Savage's friendship with Danica McKellar, they enriched the onscreen dynamic between Kevin and Winnie. This approach added a genuine touch to the show by incorporating common phrases used by kids at the time.
As recounted in an interview, McKellar shared an instance where a conversation with Savage about her crush inspired a scene, with Savage asking if she "liked him" or "liked him, liked him."
Why Kevin & Winnie Didn't Automatically Start Dating
The on-and-off dynamic of Kevin and Winnie's relationship played a pivotal role in the show's narrative. However, the extended break between the two characters during seasons 3 and 4 had a deliberate purpose.
Danica McKellar experienced a growth spurt that left Fred Savage in her shadow on set. To address this, the pair's relationship storyline orchestrated a significant split, providing Savage the time needed for his own growth spurt to catch up with McKellar and restore a balanced onscreen dynamic.
How Dan Lauria Made Jack Arnold A Veteran
The concept of portraying Jack Arnold, played by Dan Lauria, as a Korean War veteran originated from the actor himself. Drawing from his own experience as a veteran, Lauria infused the character with a genuine and dimensional portrayal.
The character's wartime past is referenced multiple times in the series, such as when Karen heads off to college and he gifts her his old duffle bag from his service. Furthermore, the show incorporates scenes from the war playing on the television in the background during family dinner scenes.
Fans May Know The Narrator As A Home Alone Bandit
While renowned for his role as one of the infamous Wet Bandits in the Home Alone franchise, actor Daniel Stern made a notable impact on The Wonder Years. Serving as the show's narrator, Stern embodied the adult Kevin Arnold. Stern also directed ten memorable episodes of the series.
Interestingly, the initial choice for the narrator was actor Arye Gross, who voiced the pilot episode. However, the premiere was eventually re-recorded with Stern's voice, solidifying his distinctive contribution to the series.
Daniel Stern's Son Shows Up In The Finale
Throughout the show's run, Daniel Stern made diverse contributions. He did a lot more than providing the narration as adult Kevin for The Wonder Years. Besides directing multiple episodes, he facilitated a heartwarming moment featuring his own son.
In the series finale's final scene, Stern, in his narration, provides updates on the characters. Notably, a boy, portrayed as Kevin's son asking him to play catch, was Stern's real-life son, adding a personal touch to the concluding moments of The Wonder Years.
Josh Saviano & Paul Pfeiffer Have A Lot In Common
Josh Saviano, known for portraying Kevin's best friend Paul Pfeiffer, follows a trajectory in life paralleling his character's. In the series finale, the audience discovers that Pfeiffer goes on to attend Harvard and eventually becomes a lawyer.
Interestingly, Saviano pursued a similar path, attending Yale and also becoming a lawyer. Presently, he provides legal protection and consulting services to celebrities and corporate brands, showcasing a real-life alignment with the professional journey depicted by his on-screen counterpart. He didn't completely give up acting and has done some guest spots on other series.
Why The DVDs Came Out A Lot Later
The remarkable soundtrack of The Wonder Years posed a significant challenge for its DVD release, causing a delay until recent years. Star Vista dedicated extensive efforts to secure the rights for all the music, a formidable task that proved overwhelming.
Although they successfully acquired rights for the majority of the originally featured songs, 14 had to be replaced for the DVD release. Eventually, the first season saw its DVD release in 2014, with subsequent seasons following suit over the next two years.
The Child Actors Didn't Work With Each Other That Much
Given that the primary characters of the show were mostly children, they had to do schoolwork and other extracurriculars. To manage this, shared scenes were frequently recorded separately.
A particularly surprising revelation for fans was the realization that the iconic scene where Kevin and Winnie first expressed their feelings to each other was shot individually. The actors disclosed that during the moment when Kevin climbs into Winnie's window, and they declare "I love you" for the first time, they were essentially speaking to empty space.
The Show's Nerd Was Actually A Huge Jock
Despite portraying a stereotypical nerd on the show, Josh Saviano was a varsity athlete in reality, boasting a room filled with trophies and awards. During a basketball scene, his athleticism stood out so much that he was called out for being too coordinated.
He's not the sole cast member with dissimilarities from their character; while Winnie was depicted as athletic, McKellar, in contrast, leaned towards academics, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. She wrote several books on the subject for kids and teens.
The Parents On The Show Never Had Kids In Real Life
Both actors portraying Kevin's parents, Dan Lauria (Jack Arnold) and Alley Mills (Norma Arnold), did not have children of their own. Consequently, they assumed parental roles for many of the kids on set, fostering a close-knit family dynamic distinct from other sitcom casts.
The absence of biological children didn't hinder Lauria and Mills from establishing themselves as integral parental figures, contributing to the unique and tight family unit forged on the set of The Wonder Years. Many of the young cast looked up to them.
The Show Made History In Season Two
In the second season of The Wonder Years, Paul reaches the age of 13, signifying his transition into adulthood according to Jewish tradition. The episode titled "Birthday Boy" chronicles Paul's preparations for his Bar Mitzvah.
With their birthdays occurring just two days apart, Kevin grapples with the realization that they won't be celebrating together as they always had. Complicating matters, Paul's significant celebration coincides with Kevin's birthday. This episode is considered to be one of the first portrayals of Judaism on mainstream television.
How Kevin Reacted To His Voiceover
If you've watched several episodes of the show, you're aware that a significant aspect of Fred Savage's role involved reacting to the voiceover. The narrator, voiced by Daniel Stern, was the adult version of Kevin. He would say everything Kevin was thinking when it came to relationships, family, bullies, and more.
To facilitate this for the young actor, someone was present on set reading the narrator's lines. This setup enabled Savage to respond to the narration promptly and with a more authentic and natural reaction.
Fred Savage Went On To Work Behind The Camera
Fred Savage transitioned seamlessly from acting to directing, carving out a successful career behind the camera. After gaining fame as Kevin Arnold in The Wonder Years, Savage pursued his passion for storytelling through directing.
His directorial debut came with his younger brother Ben Savage's TV series Boy Meets World, followed by work on numerous popular shows, including Modern Family, The Goldbergs, and the reboot of The Wonder Years. Savage's evolution into a director showcases his multifaceted talents and enduring influence in the entertainment industry.
Danica McKellar Still Loves Acting
Following her role as Winnie Cooper in The Wonder Years, Danica McKellar transitioned to academia and embraced a career in mathematics. Graduating summa cum laude from UCLA, she co-authored a groundbreaking mathematical theorem. McKellar became an advocate for math education, authoring several bestselling books encouraging young people, especially girls, to embrace and excel in mathematics.
Simultaneously, she continued her acting career, appearing in various TV shows and movies, especially Hallmark films, while making significant contributions to both the mathematical and entertainment worlds.
You Can Visit The Arnold Home
Although The Wonder Years was primarily filmed on a set, the exterior shots of the Arnold home were captured in Burbank, California. The house, situated at 516 University Avenue, remains a tangible connection to the show.
The decision to film in this location becomes evident upon arrival, as the neighborhood preserves a timeless quality. Frozen in the aesthetics of the 1940s, the homes provided an ideal backdrop for a series set in the 1960s, capturing the essence of Kevin and his friends' world.
What Happened To Kevin's New York Jets Jacket
The iconic green New York Jets jacket, a staple of Kevin's wardrobe in the first few seasons, ended up in the possession of Fred Savage's mother. In anticipation of the first season's DVD release, Savage graciously donated the jacket to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.
The significance of the jacket lies in its presence during pivotal scenes, such as Kevin's first day of school and his memorable first kiss with Winnie, making it a valuable artifact representing the show's cultural impact.
Fred & Ben Savage's Shows Have A Lot In Common
The Wonder Years and Boy Meets World share a thematic kinship as coming-of-age series that resonate with audiences across generations. Both portray the trials and tribulations of adolescence, exploring friendship, love, and personal growth.
Fred Savage, the star of The Wonder Years, later directed episodes of Boy Meets World, bridging the shows further. The heartfelt narratives, relatable characters, and timeless life lessons in both series contribute to their enduring popularity, offering viewers a nostalgic and insightful journey through the ups and downs of youth.
Fred Savage Appeared In Every Episode
Fred Savage holds the distinction of being the sole cast member to be featured in all 115 episodes of the show. It would be difficult to do the show without the lead. Alley Mills, Josh Saviano, and Jason Hervey, who portrayed Kevin's older brother, Wayne, follow closely with the second-highest number of episodes at 113.
Notably, Danica McKellar, despite being a pivotal part of the storyline, appeared in only 85 episodes, showcasing an unexpected contrast in episode count compared to her integral role in the series.
The Show Was Almost Made Into A Movie
The Wonder Years nearly took a cinematic turn before it was considered to be a television show. However, the project didn't materialize in that format, leaving the beloved series as a TV phenomenon. A narrator's perspective had never been used in a sitcom before.
The prospect of bringing the nostalgic narrative to the big screen stirred excitement, but ultimately, the decision to preserve the show's legacy on television prevailed. Fortunately, it all worked out, and it became one of the most successful shows in history.
Jason Hervey's Brother Was The Inspiration For Wayne
Jason Hervey revealed that his portrayal of Wayne Arnold drew significant inspiration from his real-life brother, whom he dubs the genuine Wayne Arnold. In a notable episode, Wayne begrudgingly picks up Kevin from the mall, playfully teasing him by repeatedly moving the car forward each time Kevin reaches for the door handle.
Hervey shared that his actual brother pulled a similar prank on his first day of 7th grade, intentionally embarrassing him in front of his classmates. The parallel between reality and fiction adds a humorous twist to the portrayal.
The Actors Eventually Grew Up
The Wonder Years concluded not due to a decline in popularity or creative fatigue but as a result of the cast naturally outgrowing their characters. As the young actors matured, the series captured the essence of coming-of-age.
The decision to end the show reflected a desire to preserve the authenticity of the characters' journeys and marked the poignant culmination of a nostalgic era in television as the cast, much like their characters, embarked on new chapters in their lives. Also, the family series couldn't show mature subject matter as the characters aged.
The Wonder Years Almost Crossed Over With The Sopranos
After being on the air for a while, The Wonder Years producer Ken Topolsky sensed a decline in the show's momentum. Seeking to rejuvenate viewer interest, he enlisted The Sopranos creator David Chase to contribute his writing expertise.
Although the script was praised as exceptional and among the series' best, its mature content, involving illegal substance abuse, was deemed unsuitable for the audience. Consequently, the episode was never used, leaving little information about its specifics beyond its reputation as an unused gem.
The Marilyn Manson Theory Is Debunked
A curious theory circulated regarding Josh Saviano, who portrayed Paul Pfeiffer in The Wonder Years, suggesting he grew up to become shock rocker Marilyn Manson. However, this speculation is unfounded, as Saviano pursued a legal career, and Manson is a distinct individual named Brian Warner.
The theory highlights the peculiar nature of celebrity rumors and the imaginative connections fans draw between disparate figures, creating a bizarre and erroneous narrative surrounding Saviano and Manson. That theory was officially debunked as Saviano repeatedly stated he's not the rock star.
The Show's Ending Disappointed Fans
The Wonder Years finale stirred mixed emotions as fans expressed disappointment that Kevin and Winnie didn't end up together. Despite the nostalgia and journey through adolescence, the conclusion took a realistic turn, illustrating life's uncertainties. Many couples don't stay with their first love.
The decision to depict the characters going separate ways resonated with some viewers but left others longing for a more conventional, fairy-tale ending. The divergence in audience expectations reflected the complex emotions tied to the culmination of a beloved coming-of-age series.
The Beatles Sort Of Made An Appearance On The Show
The Wonder Years made history as the first sitcom to incorporate footage from the Beatles' iconic 1964 performance on The Ed Sullivan Show. Regrettably, the utilization of the footage fell short, and the episode as a whole received lackluster reviews and was deemed mediocre at best.
The disappointment was so palpable that Jon Feltheimer, the head of New World Entertainment, went so far as to demand a refund from producer Bob Brush, underscoring the dissatisfaction with the entire episode's execution.
It Was Set 20 Years In The Past
The Wonder Years achieved a distinctive charm by setting its narrative 20 years in the past when it first aired. The series premiered in 1988 and first took place during the pivotal summer of 1968. It effectively captured the essence of a bygone era, fostering a nostalgic connection for viewers.
This unique temporal juxtaposition allowed the show to explore universal themes of adolescence, family, and friendship through the lens of a specific period, creating a timeless and relatable coming-of-age story.
Wayne Arnold Is One Of TV's Biggest Brats
Wayne Arnold, depicted by Jason Hervey in The Wonder Years, was the quintessential older brother, often portrayed as a brat. His character embodied the archetype of the troublesome sibling, consistently teasing and tormenting his younger brother, Kevin.
Despite his brash demeanor, Wayne's character added a dynamic layer to the series, contributing to the authenticity of family dynamics. His growth throughout the show provided glimpses of vulnerability, transforming him from a stereotypical brat into a more nuanced and relatable character. Wayne was voted one of "TV's Biggest Brats" by TV Guide.
There Were A Lot Of Potatoes On Screen
Potatoes became a recurring element in the Arnold family's dining scenes on The Wonder Years. The show's creators intentionally incorporated this detail to highlight the simplicity of the Arnold household and mirror the relatable, everyday experiences of viewers.
The choice to depict potatoes as a staple emphasized the show's commitment to authenticity and served as a subtle yet effective symbol of the unassuming, ordinary aspects of family life that resonated with audiences throughout the series. It was also common for families during this time period to frequently have potatoes at the dinner table.
Kevin's School Lessons Paralleled His Personal Life
Every time the camera focuses on Kevin's teacher, he delivers a speech that either directly or metaphorically connects to Kevin's predicament in the episode.
Portrayed by actor Ben Stein, the teacher, while not necessarily psychic, seems remarkably attuned to his student's personal life. Stein, renowned for his role in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, brings a distinctive touch to the character, weaving insightful commentary into the narrative and contributing to the show's unique storytelling approach. Many of the lessons would also be huge historic moments of that era.
