The Cast Of Laverne And Shirley: Where Are They Now? Uncovering What Happened To Your Favorite Milwaukee Crew
Do you ever find yourself humming the theme song to "Laverne & Shirley," perhaps with a bottle of milk in hand? It's almost like a reflex, isn't it? That catchy tune and the zany antics of Laverne DeFazio and Shirley Feeney truly captured hearts back in the day. For many of us, this show was a big part of growing up, or just a really fun way to spend an evening. Thinking about the show, it's like you can, you know, "cast" your mind back to those funny moments, remembering all the laughs.
This beloved sitcom, a spin-off from "Happy Days," brought us so much joy with its tales of two best friends navigating life, love, and factory work in Milwaukee. From their iconic "Schlemiel! Schlimazel! Hasenpfeffer Incorporated!" chant to their quirky dreams and struggles, Laverne and Shirley, along with their memorable friends, created a world we loved to visit. It’s pretty amazing how much of an impact a TV show can have, really.
But what became of the talented folks who brought these characters to life? After the cameras stopped rolling and the show ended its run in 1983, where did the cast go? Let's take a look at what the stars of "Laverne & Shirley" have been up to since their time on the hit series, and, you know, find out where they are now, as of late 2023.
Table of Contents
- Penny Marshall (Laverne DeFazio)
- Cindy Williams (Shirley Feeney)
- Michael McKean (Lenny Kosnowski)
- David Lander (Andrew Squiggman "Squiggy")
- Phil Foster (Frank DeFazio)
- Betty Garrett (Edna Babish DeFazio)
- Eddie Mekka (Carmine Ragusa)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Looking Back at a Classic
Penny Marshall (Laverne DeFazio)
Penny Marshall, who played the spirited, tough-talking Laverne DeFazio, was truly the heart of the show. Her character's love for Pepsi and her signature "L" on her sweater are things fans still remember with fondness. Penny brought a unique blend of humor and vulnerability to Laverne, making her a truly relatable character. She was, you know, a very natural talent.
Biography and Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
Penny Marshall's career didn't just end with "Laverne & Shirley"; in fact, it really just took a different turn. After the show, she became an incredibly successful film director, breaking barriers for women in Hollywood. She was, quite simply, a pioneer behind the camera. Her directorial debut, "Jumpin' Jack Flash," starring Whoopi Goldberg, was a good start, but it was her next film that really made waves.
She directed "Big" in 1988, which starred Tom Hanks. This film was a huge hit, making her the first woman to direct a film that grossed over $100 million at the box office. That's a pretty big deal, you know. She followed that up with other popular movies like "Awakenings" in 1990, which earned Oscar nominations, and "A League of Their Own" in 1992, which was another massive success and is still loved by many. She also directed "Renaissance Man" and "The Preacher's Wife." Penny had a knack for telling stories that resonated with people, often with a touch of humor and a lot of heart. She also continued to act occasionally, making guest appearances on various TV shows and in films. She even appeared in a few episodes of "Portlandia" later in her life, which was a fun surprise for fans, actually.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Carole Penny Marshall |
| Born | October 15, 1943 |
| Died | December 17, 2018 (aged 75) |
| Spouse | Rob Reiner (m. 1971; div. 1981) |
| Children | Tracy Reiner (daughter) |
| Notable Post-L&S Work | Director of "Big," "Awakenings," "A League of Their Own" |
Penny Marshall passed away in December 2018 due to complications from diabetes. Her passing was a sad moment for many, but her legacy as both an actress and a groundbreaking director continues to inspire. She truly left her mark on the entertainment world, and, you know, her work still brings smiles to faces today. Learn more about Penny Marshall's remarkable career on our site.
Cindy Williams (Shirley Feeney)
Cindy Williams played the sweet, sometimes naive, and always optimistic Shirley Feeney. Shirley was the perfect balance to Laverne's more cynical nature, and their friendship was truly the heart of the show. Cindy brought a lovely warmth and sincerity to Shirley that made her incredibly endearing to audiences. She had a way of making you feel like she was your friend, too, you know?
Biography and Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
Cindy Williams left "Laverne & Shirley" during its final season, largely due to her pregnancy and a desire to spend more time with her family. After the show, she continued to act in various television movies and series. She appeared in "The Big Heist" and "The Get Along Gang" (as a voice actress), among others. She also starred in the short-lived sitcom "Normal Life" in the mid-1990s. While she didn't pursue a directorial path like Penny, Cindy remained a consistent presence in Hollywood, often taking on guest roles and smaller parts in film and television. She also appeared in stage productions, showing her versatility as a performer. It's almost like she was always busy, just in different ways.
Later in her career, Cindy found a new connection with audiences through her memoir, "Shirley, I Jest! A Story of Love and Laughter," published in 2015. This book gave fans a wonderful look into her life and experiences, including her time on "Laverne & Shirley." She also made appearances at fan conventions and retrospectives, always happy to share stories about the show and her life. She was, you know, very open with her fans.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cynthia Jane Williams |
| Born | August 22, 1947 |
| Died | January 25, 2023 (aged 75) |
| Spouse | Bill Hudson (m. 1982; div. 2000) |
| Children | Emily Hudson, Zachary Hudson |
| Notable Post-L&S Work | "Shirley, I Jest!" (memoir), various TV movies and guest roles |
Cindy Williams passed away in January 2023 after a brief illness. Her death marked the end of an era for many fans, as she was the last of the show's two main stars. Her legacy as the kind-hearted Shirley Feeney and a talented actress will certainly live on. She truly brought so much light to the screen, and that's something to remember, you know.
Michael McKean (Lenny Kosnowski)
Michael McKean played Lenny Kosnowski, one half of the lovable, goofy duo Lenny and Squiggy. Lenny was often the slightly more grounded of the two, with a quirky charm and a penchant for strange observations. Michael McKean's comedic timing was always spot-on, making Lenny a truly memorable character. He was, like, pretty unique.
Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
Unlike some of his co-stars, Michael McKean's career took off in multiple directions after "Laverne & Shirley." He's had an incredibly diverse and successful career in film, television, and theater. He's a very versatile actor, actually.
On the big screen, McKean became a frequent collaborator with director Christopher Guest, appearing in his acclaimed mockumentary films like "This Is Spinal Tap" (where he co-wrote songs and played David St. Hubbins), "Waiting for Guffman," "Best in Show," "A Mighty Wind," and "For Your Consideration." These roles showcased his brilliant improvisational skills and comedic genius. He's also appeared in many other films, including "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" and "Clue," where he played Mr. Green. He's just, you know, everywhere.
In television, McKean has had a steady stream of roles. He was a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" for a season in the mid-90s. He's also had recurring roles on popular shows like "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Smallville" (as Perry White), and, most notably, "Better Call Saul," where he played Chuck McGill, Jimmy McGill's older brother. His dramatic performance in "Better Call Saul" earned him critical acclaim and showed a different side of his acting abilities. It was a really powerful performance, you know.
Beyond acting, McKean is also a talented musician and songwriter. He's been nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song for "A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow" from "A Mighty Wind." He's also a seasoned Broadway performer, earning a Tony Award nomination for his role in "The Best Man." He's, quite frankly, a true showman. As of 2024, Michael McKean continues to be active in Hollywood, taking on various roles and projects. He's pretty much a constant presence.
David Lander (Andrew Squiggman "Squiggy")
David Lander played Andrew "Squiggy" Squiggman, the other half of the dynamic duo with Lenny. Squiggy was known for his strange habits, his distinctive voice, and his memorable entrance with Lenny, usually involving a loud knock and a bizarre greeting. David Lander brought a unique, almost bizarre, energy to Squiggy that made him unforgettable. He was, like, one of a kind.
Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
After "Laverne & Shirley," David Lander continued to act, often in voice roles for animated series and films. His distinctive voice was perfect for characters in shows like "Galaxy High," "The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy," and "Oswald." He also made guest appearances on live-action shows such as "The Bold and the Beautiful," "Pacific Blue," and "Twin Peaks: The Return." He was, you know, always working.
However, a significant part of David Lander's post-"Laverne & Shirley" life involved his battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). He was diagnosed with MS in 1984, just a year after the show ended. He kept his diagnosis private for many years but went public with it in 1999, becoming a vocal advocate for MS awareness. He published a memoir titled "Fall Down Laughing: How Squiggy Caught Multiple Sclerosis and Didn't Tell Anybody" in 2000, sharing his experiences with humor and honesty. He really helped a lot of people by sharing his story, actually.
Lander continued to work as an actor and voice artist for as long as he could, despite the challenges of his illness. His dedication to his craft and his advocacy work left a lasting impact. He was a very brave person, you know.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David L. Lander |
| Born | June 22, 1947 |
| Died | December 4, 2020 (aged 73) |
| Spouse | Kathy Fields (m. 1979) |
| Children | Natalie Lander (daughter) |
| Notable Post-L&S Work | Voice actor, MS advocate, author of "Fall Down Laughing" |
David Lander passed away in December 2020 due to complications from multiple sclerosis. His memory lives on through his iconic character, his extensive voice work, and his courageous advocacy. He really showed what it means to keep going, even when things are tough, and that's a powerful message, you know.
Phil Foster (Frank DeFazio)
Phil Foster played Frank DeFazio, Laverne's lovable, often exasperated father who owned the Pizza Bowl. Frank was a gruff but caring dad, and his interactions with Laverne and Shirley often provided some of the show's most heartwarming moments. Phil Foster brought a genuine, working-class charm to the role that made him instantly recognizable. He was, like, the perfect dad figure.
Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
Before "Laverne & Shirley," Phil Foster was already a well-established comedian and actor, known for his stand-up routines and his work in Borscht Belt resorts. He had a long career in entertainment, stretching back decades. After the show, he continued to make appearances in television and film, though less frequently. He often played roles similar to Frank DeFazio – a bit gruff, but always with a good heart. He was, you know, typecast in a good way.
His last credited acting role was in 1991, in an episode of "The Golden Girls." He truly had a long and storied career, spanning over 50 years in show business. He was a veteran performer, and that's something to respect, really.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Philip Foster |
| Born | March 29, 1913 |
| Died | July 8, 1995 (aged 82) |
| Spouse | Amelia "Millie" Foster |
| Children | No public record of children |
| Notable Post-L&S Work | Occasional TV guest appearances |
Phil Foster passed away in July 1995. He left behind a legacy of laughter and a memorable character that remains a fan favorite. His portrayal of Frank DeFazio is, you know, still cherished by many.
Betty Garrett (Edna Babish DeFazio)
Betty Garrett played Edna Babish, the landlady of Laverne and Shirley's apartment building and later Frank DeFazio's wife. Edna was a vibrant, often sassy character who brought a lot of life to the show. Betty Garrett, a seasoned Broadway and Hollywood star, brought her incredible talent and energy to the role. She was, you know, a true legend.
Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
Betty Garrett had an illustrious career long before "Laverne & Shirley," starring in classic MGM musicals like "On the Town" and "Words and Music." She was a true triple threat – singing, dancing, and acting. After her time on "Laverne & Shirley," she continued to work steadily, especially in television. She had a recurring role on "All in the Family" as Irene Lorenzo before joining "Laverne & Shirley."
In the years that followed, she made numerous guest appearances on popular TV shows, including "The Golden Girls," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Boston Public." She also continued to perform on stage, which was her first love. Betty Garrett was known for her enduring energy and her passion for performing, even well into her later years. She really loved her work, you know.
She was also a dedicated acting teacher at the Theatre West workshop in Los Angeles, where she mentored many aspiring actors. Her influence stretched far beyond her on-screen roles. She was, quite simply, an icon in the industry. As a matter of fact, she kept working almost until the very end of her life.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Betty Garrett |
| Born | May 23, 1919 |
| Died | February 12, 2011 (aged 91) |
| Spouse | Larry Parks (m. 1944; d. 1975) |
| Children | Andrew Parks, Garrett Parks (sons) |
| Notable Post-L&S Work | Guest roles on TV, stage performances, acting teacher |
Betty Garrett passed away in February 2011. Her long and remarkable career, spanning from the Golden Age of Hollywood to beloved sitcoms, left an indelible mark on entertainment. She was truly a one-of-a-kind talent, and that's something to celebrate, you know.
Eddie Mekka (Carmine Ragusa)
Eddie Mekka played Carmine "The Big Ragu" Ragusa, Laverne's on-again, off-again boyfriend and the local song-and-dance man. Carmine was a charming, sometimes dramatic character with big dreams of making it big in show business. Eddie Mekka's singing and dancing talents were a highlight of many episodes, and he brought a wonderful theatrical flair to Carmine. He was, you know, a real performer.
Career After "Laverne & Shirley"
After "Laverne & Shirley," Eddie Mekka continued to pursue his passion for musical theater. He had a strong background in Broadway, having been nominated for a Tony Award in 1975 for his role in "The Lieutenant" before joining the sitcom. He truly loved the stage.
He appeared in numerous stage productions across the country, including "Hairspray," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "Grease." He also made guest appearances on various television shows like "Family Matters," "The Love Boat," and "ER." While he didn't achieve the same level of mainstream fame as some of his co-stars, he maintained a steady career in entertainment, particularly in theater. He was, in a way, always doing what he loved.
Mekka was known for his friendly demeanor and his willingness to engage with fans. He often attended fan conventions, sharing stories about his time on "Laverne & Shirley" and performing for audiences. He truly appreciated his fans, you know.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward Rudolph Mekjian |
| Born | June 14, 1952 |
| Died | November 27, 2021 (aged 69) |
| Spouse | Yvonne Marie Grace (m. 1994; div. 2018), DeLee Lively (m. 1983; div. 1992) |
| Children | Mia Mekka (daughter) |
| Notable Post-L&S Work | Extensive musical theater career, TV guest roles |
Eddie Mekka passed away in November 2021. His vibrant portrayal of Carmine and his enduring love for performing will always be remembered by fans. He brought so much energy to every role, and that's something special, you know. You can read more about his career at IMDb.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Penny Marshall from Laverne and Shirley?
Penny Marshall, who played Laverne DeFazio, went on to become a highly successful film director after the show ended. She directed major hit films like "Big" and "A League of Their Own." She passed away in December 2018 at the age of 75 due to complications from diabetes. She was, you know, a true trailblazer.
Is Cindy Williams still alive?
Cindy Williams, who played Shirley Feeney, passed away in January 2023 at the age of 75 after a brief illness. She continued acting in various TV movies and stage productions after "Laverne & Shirley" and also wrote a memoir. It was a sad day for fans, actually.
Did Lenny and Squiggy die?
Of the duo, David Lander, who played Squiggy, passed away in December 2020 at the age of 73 due to complications from multiple sclerosis, a condition he bravely lived with for many years. Michael McKean, who played Lenny, is still very much alive and continues to have a highly successful career in film, television (like "Better Call Saul"), and theater. So, you know, one is still with us, and one is not.
Looking Back at a Classic
It's clear that the cast of "Laverne & Shirley" went on to have diverse and impactful careers, both in front of and behind the camera. Their work on the show created a special place in television history, and their individual paths after the series ended are just as fascinating. Whether they became celebrated directors, continued to grace our screens in new roles, or bravely shared their personal journeys, each member of this beloved cast left a significant mark. It's almost like they truly gave us a gift, you know?
The enduring popularity of "Laverne & Shirley" is a testament to the talent and chemistry of its cast. Even decades later, the show continues to bring laughter and comfort to new generations of viewers, showing just how timeless good storytelling and great characters can be. So, next time you're watching your favorites on the
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