Who Narrates Arrested Development
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Arrested Development is an iconic American television sitcom known for its distinctive fourth wall-breaking narration that often serves as a key part of the show’s comedy. But who does this unique role belong to?
The answer, quite literally, is Ron Howard. During the first three seasons of Arrested Development, Howard served as the narrator and onscreen anchor of the show, providing situation-specific commentary in the voice of an omniscient narrator. He is credited for lending the show much of its unique charm.
Howard was a perfect fit for the role because he was already familiar to audiences due among other things to his role as Richie Cunningham on "Happy Days". As creator Mitch Hurwitz explains it, having a familiar face serve as narrator both reinforced the show’s connection with the audience and “immediately put us in an identifiable place with the audience. It made them feel comfortable.”
This narrator technique of addressing the audience directly was used to great effect in Arrested Development. During the show’s run, the narrator (AKA “Ron Howard”) often provided background exposition, his dry wit poking fun at the show’s characters and situations. His unique voice could make something out of nothing, spinning otherwise benign situations into hilarious punchlines.
In subsequent seasons, the role of Arrested Development’s narrator changed hands a few times. Henry Winkler and then Jeffrey Tambor both briefly stepped in as narrators in season four, with Scott Baio replacing them in season five. For the 2017 feature-length film, it was Hurwitz himself who provided the narration.
However, it won’t be until the fifth season of Arrested Development that Howard returns to the role. After more than 10 years, the actor will once again be making his mark not only as an actor, but as the show’s beloved narrator.
With Howard firmly inside their corner, there’s no doubt that this next season of the beloved cult sitcom will capture the same genius and wit that made Arrested Development a hit in the first place.