Ep 11. Guess Who's Coming to Christmas

In the Happy Days season 2 episode 11 titled "Guess Who's Coming to Christmas," the Cunningham family is getting ready for their Christmas celebrations. However, there's a twist this year as they invite Richie's former girlfriend, Arlene (played by Linda Purl) and her family to join in the festivities.

While the idea of having guests over seems exciting initially, the Cunninghams soon realize that Arlene and her family are very different from them. They come from a wealthy background and have different traditions and habits. This causes tension and trouble between the two families as they navigate through different expectations and personalities.

Meanwhile, Fonzie, who is spending his Christmas alone for the first time, decides to crash the Cunningham's party. Initially, he tries to hide in the garage, but eventually, he joins in on the Christmas fun. As always, Fonzie brings a level of cool and humor to the party and helps to ease some of the family tensions.

One of the highlights of the episode is the Christmas dinner scene, where both families come together for a meal. As they sit around the table, they slowly begin to understand and appreciate each other's differences. Arlene's father, who initially came across as cold and standoffish, reveals a softer side. He mentions that he lost his wife, and Christmas is especially tough for him. This prompts Howard Cunningham to share a story about his own father and the family begins to bond over their shared experiences.

Throughout the episode, there are several heartwarming moments. For instance, when Joanie Cunningham is disappointed with her Christmas gifts, Richie helps her to appreciate what she has. He shares a story about how he once got a football as a gift and how he treasured it. Meanwhile, the typically tough Fonzie shows his soft side when he gives Joanie a necklace as a present.

Ultimately, the episode ends with both families saying their goodbyes and heading home. As they hug and express their gratitude, it's clear that they've all learned a valuable lesson about the importance of inclusivity and acceptance during the holiday season.

"Guess Who's Coming to Christmas" is a heartwarming episode of Happy Days that celebrates the spirit of Christmas and the importance of family, love, and acceptance. The storyline is engaging and the performances are top-notch, making it a must-watch for fans of the show.