Taxi and Early Success
Tony Danza joined the cast of 'Taxi' in its fourth season in 1981, playing Danny Becker, an ex-boxer turned taxi driver. His character became a fan favorite and helped boost his career significantly. The show was set in a New York City taxi garage and featured an ensemble cast dealing with comedy and drama. Danza's natural charisma and comedic timing made him stand out among the talented cast.
Who's the Boss?
After 'Taxi' ended, Danza became the star of 'Who's the Boss?' where he played Tony Micelli, a blue-collar construction worker who becomes a live-in housekeeper for a wealthy female advertising executive, played by Judith Light. The show was a huge hit and ran for eight seasons on ABC from 1984 to 1992. This role made Danza a household name and established him as a leading man in television comedy.
Career Impact
Both of these roles defined Danza's television career and made him recognizable to millions of viewers. 'Who's the Boss?' in particular became one of the most popular sitcoms of the 1980s, reaching top 10 ratings throughout most of its run. The show's success opened doors for Danza to pursue other entertainment opportunities, including hosting, acting in films, and appearing in various other television projects.
Later Work
Beyond these two major roles, Danza has appeared in numerous other television shows and movies, hosted a talk show called 'The Tony Danza Show,' and made guest appearances on popular programs. He has remained active in entertainment for decades and is still recognized primarily for his work on 'Taxi' and 'Who's the Boss?' by audiences of different generations.