‘WKRP in Cincinnati’ was a T.V. show in the late 70s with many memorable moments and characters. One of the most beloved D.J.s was Dr. Johnny Fever, played perfectly by Howard Hesseman.
This clip shows the moment D.J. Johnny Caravella turns into the famed ‘Dr. Johnny Fever’ and begins an era of rock at WKRP. Hesseman’s facial expressions and comedic timing have the audience in hysterics.
Andy, the program manager, pops in to visit a bored, sometimes sleeping Johnny as he spins easy-listening tunes. Andy tells Johnny he wants to change the format to rock and roll.
Johnny is initially reluctant, telling Andy he may want to reconsider and find a younger D.J. However, Andy refuses and hands him a stack of rock and roll records. Andy even throws in the bonus that Johnny can say ‘booger!’
Johnny looks around the D.J. booth, seemingly realizing his newfound freedom. He says, ‘Well, it’s goodbye, the elevator music.’ He rips off the easy-listening record and breaks it in half. Johnny grins while doing a mischievous laugh.
He scratches another record and leads in with his iconic new persona ‘Dr. Johnny Fever,’ saying, ‘All right, Cincinnati, it is time for this town to get down! You’ve got Johnny—Doctor Johnny Fever, and I am burnin’ up in here! Whoa! Whoo!’
He spins the rock record and punches his fists in the air while dancing, followed by some air drumming. He grabs the mic and says, ‘I almost forgot, fellow babies… booger!’ It is an epic scene played fantastically by Howard Hesseman in the defining role of his life!
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