William Daniels Originally Turned Down ‘Mr. Feeny’ Role On ‘Boy Meets World’

William Daniels became a television icon for his portrayal of Mr. Feeny on the 90s classic sitcom, “Boy Meets World.” Feeny was a stoic but helpful teacher that all the main characters went to for advice. Daniels has continued to be a real-life mentor to the actors who worked with him all these years later.

Several of the show’s stars have started a podcast called “Pod Meets World,” where they share memories of the ABC hit. William Daniels recently appeared as a guest. He revealed that he initially turned down the part of Mr. Feeny after it was offered to him by showrunner Michael Jacobs.

The two discussed why William Daniels wasn’t interested in the role. Daniels said that he didn’t want to make fun of teachers. He believed they were underpaid and did not want to disrespect the profession.

“I said, ‘Well, that’s a funny name and I don’t really want to make fun of teachers. I respect them, and they’re underpaid,’ and all that.”

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Daniels thought Feeny was a silly and disrespectful name for a teacher. Little did he know that the role he would play would ultimately be the epitome of what a teacher should be. Once Michael Jacobs explained that he was on board.

The Mr. Feeny character has inspired a generation of kids to respect their teachers, with many even joining the profession themselves. It’s hard to imagine anyone else playing the part. William Daniels ultimately made the right decision when he took the part.

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