January 15, 2018
In an autobiography as cheerful and straightforward as the author’s character on Happy Days, Ross uncomplainingly recounts a life filled with more melodrama than comedy. For 11 years the actress regularly entered American households as the iconic TV mother Mrs. Cunningham, but here she shares the struggles that preceded that success. Growing up in Minnesota during the Great Depression, Ross dreamed of becoming a Hollywood star. With her supportive mother’s help, Ross scraped together the money to study drama and speech (losing, in the process, her heavy Minnesota accent when it was pointed out to her). A move to California and a Paramount Studios contract seemed to mark the fulfillment of Ross’s dreams—until the contract wasn’t renewed. Neither an impulsive marriage to an alcoholic nor having to work while raising two children dimmed Ross’s dream, but these circumstances did force her to abandon hopes of film or theater stardom and focus on television. Following her divorce, Ross took a small part in the 1970 film Airport, which role led to her being cast in the Happy Days pilot. Interviews with the series’ cast and crew, including Ron Howard and the late Gary Marshall, add insight into Ross’s contributions to the show’s success. While lacking in the behind-the-scenes gossip readers might expect, this book will please fans with its down-to-earth account of the dedicated actress behind an adored character.
February 15, 2018
Fans of the popular TV show Happy Days (1974-84) will recognize the name "Mrs. C.," though few may be familiar with Marion Ross. Yet Ross brought Mrs. C, one of the most beloved TV moms, to life. In this memoir, Ross recalls growing up in Minnesota and dreaming of becoming a famous actress. Her determination helped her achieve that dream, though fame eluded her until her 50s. Ross shares anecdotes about the show and interviews with her cast mates conducted by coauthor Laurell, including her screen daughter Erin Moran, who died unexpectedly soon after this book was completed. Ross comes across as very much like Mrs. C.--optimistic and kind of ditzy--and according to her castmates, she was as much a mom presence on set as she was on the show. But this account is not all sweetness and light. Ross paid her dues in life and toiling in small parts in big movies until Happy Days found her. VERDICT Happy Days fans will enjoy the anecdotes about the show, but Ross's perseverance also serves as a primer for aspiring actors.--Rosellen Brewer, Sno-Isle Libs., Marysville, WA
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