The name Fonzie — a nickname for Alfonso (and similar names) — appeared in the U.S. baby name data a handful of times during the early 20th century.
Then, after a four-decade absence from the data, Fonzie suddenly experienced a brief revival:
- 1979: unlisted
- 1978: unlisted
- 1977: 8 baby boys named Fonzie
- 1976: 6 baby boys named Fonzie
- 1975: 9 baby boys named Fonzie
- 1974: unlisted
- 1973: unlisted
Why?
Because of the popular character Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli (played by Henry Winkler) from the TV series Happy Days, which premiered in 1974.
The main character of the series (which was set in the 1950s) was wholesome Wisconsin high schooler Richie Cunningham. Richie’s unlikely best friend, Fonzie, was a greaser who wore a leather jacket, rode a motorcycle, and worked as an auto mechanic (having dropped out of high school). Fonzie was the show’s breakout character.
What are your thoughts on the baby name Fonzie?
Sources: Happy Days – Wikipedia, SSA
P.S. The Happy Days spin-offs Joanie Loves Chachi and Out of the Blue also influenced U.S. baby names…
[Latest update: April 2023]
My son is 4 months old now and we named him Arthur Fonzarelli with his own last name. He is named Arthur after my husbands grandfather. I picked his middle name cause the only cool Arthur I know is Arthur Fonzarelli. I just wanted to update your information. We think it fits him perfectly but we mostly call him Arthur.
Fun story! Thanks Amanda.