Episode 134 - Chatting With America’s Favorite TV Dad: Dan Lauria From The Wonder Years – Part 2

In the second half of this unforgettable two-part conversation, Tony Miros dives back in with beloved actor Dan Lauria — and the stories just keep getting better! From working with Robert Loggia in the blockbuster Independence Day to stepping into the world of NASA for Tom Hanks’ HBO miniseries From the Earth to the Moon, Dan shares behind-the-scenes tales that span film, television, and theater. Plus, you’ll love his heartwarming story about Tom Hanks’ generosity.

Dan also recalls encounters with Hollywood greats like Jimmy Stewart, Robert Mitchum, Cary Grant, and Ernest Borgnine, sharing the wisdom and humor he picked up along the way. He talks about his experiences on Boy Meets World, Hot in Cleveland with Wendie Malick and Betty White, and his three-season run on the TBS comedy Sullivan & Son. And yes, he even dishes on filming the comic book adventure The Spirit alongside Samuel L. Jackson.

On Broadway, Dan brought legendary coach Vince Lombardi to life in Lombardi — a performance so convincing that the NFL itself insisted he take the role. He reflects on working with Judith Light (who still calls him “Poppi”), the show’s incredible success, and the thrill of performing A Christmas Story: The Musical at Madison Square Garden. He also shares his pride in portraying Tip O’Neill in the new film Reagan opposite Dennis Quaid.

The episode closes with Dan’s thoughts on his remarkable career, from The Wonder Years to his new play Just Another Day, co-starring Patty McCormick, currently at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. With candid reflections, hilarious anecdotes, and moving memories, this is a must-listen conversation with a true television icon.

DAN LAURIA

Dan Lauria is best known and loved for his role as Jack Arnold, America’s favorite TV dad, on the Emmy-winning ABC classic The Wonder Years, which ran for six celebrated seasons.

A familiar face on stage and screen, Dan has performed, written, or directed more than 50 professional theater productions, spanning off-off Broadway, off Broadway, and regional stages. His screen credits include guest appearances in over 70 television series, more than 20 “Movie of the Week” productions, and numerous feature films.

On Broadway, Dan starred as legendary coach Vince Lombardi in Lombardi (2010–11) opposite Judith Light, directed by Thomas Kail of Hamilton fame. He returned in 2013–14 to appear in the Tony-nominated A Christmas Story: The Musical, directed by John Rando. Alongside his longtime friend Wendie Malick, Dan has also performed The Guys (honoring first responders) and Love Letters at theaters nationwide, often as fundraisers for regional companies and new play development.

On television, Dan starred for three seasons on the TBS series Sullivan & Son and appeared in Pitch as Al Loungo, the father of Major League Baseball’s first female pitcher. He later joined the acclaimed cast of This Is Us as Toby’s father. He has also written and starred in the Off-Broadway productions Dinner With the Boys (produced by Pat Addiss and NJ Rep) and The Stone Witch by Shem Bitterman. With his godson Julian Farnsworth, Dan co-writes children’s books, including the fan favorite The Godfather Tales.

Most recently, Dan is starring in his new play "Just Another Day," opposite Patty McCormack ("The Bad Seed"), running from August 29 2025 through September, 28 2025 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. 

Tickets For “Just Another Day” at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles –- https://odysseytheatre.com/whats-on/just-another-day/

Dan Lauria Website – https://www.thedanlauria.com/

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