Boulder’s Star-Studded Past: The Legacy of Mork & Mindy

Boulder, Colorado, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventure, and vibrant community. But did you know that it’s also home to one of the most iconic TV locations in history? That’s right—Mork & Mindy, the beloved sitcom that catapulted Robin Williams to stardom, was set and partially filmed right here in Boulder.

Mork & Mindy’s House – Boulder, CO (Elevation: 5,430 ft)
This iconic Victorian home on Pearl Street was the backdrop for Mork & Mindy, forever linking Boulder to TV history. Nanu Nanu!

An Iconic House on Pearl Street

If you’ve ever strolled down Pearl Street, you might have passed one of TV’s most recognizable houses without even realizing it. The Victorian-style home at 1619 Pine Street served as the exterior for Mindy’s house, where Mork (played by Robin Williams) crash-landed his spaceship and began his adventures on Earth.

While most of the show’s interior scenes were filmed on a Hollywood soundstage, the exterior shots were all Boulder. This house has since become a pilgrimage site for fans of the show, a quirky piece of television history nestled right in the heart of Boulder.

Pearl Street Mall – Boulder, CO (Elevation: 5,430 ft)
One of the most beautiful and top-rated outdoor malls in the U.S., with the Flatirons of the Rocky Mountains as a stunning backdrop

Fun Facts About Mork & Mindy

• Robin Williams’ Breakout Role – Before he became a comedy legend, Robin Williams was an unknown actor. His portrayal of Mork from Ork was so wild and improvisational that producers let him ad-lib many of his lines, giving the show its unique energy.
• The Origin of “Nanu Nanu” – Williams’ famous catchphrase, “Nanu Nanu,” was his own invention. It became a cultural phenomenon, much like Spock’s “Live long and prosper.”
• Boulder’s Skyline in the Credits – If you rewatch the opening sequence, you’ll notice stunning aerial shots of Boulder, showcasing the Flatirons and the Pearl Street Mall in the late 1970s.
• Orson’s Voice – Mork’s alien boss, Orson, was voiced by actor Ralph James, but the character’s presence added to the show’s quirky, sci-fi charm.
• A Crossover with Happy Days – Believe it or not, Mork & Mindy was a Happy Days spin-off. Mork first appeared in an episode of Happy Days, and his character was so popular that he got his own show.

The Mushroom House – Boulder, CO
This one-of-a-kind architectural gem was featured in Woody Allen’s Sleeper (1973), adding a futuristic touch to Boulder’s landscape.

The Hollywood Effect on Boulder

While Mork & Mindy was the biggest production associated with Boulder, it wasn’t the last time Hollywood came calling. The city’s scenic backdrop and charming small-town feel have made it a favorite for filmmakers. Other productions that have used Boulder as a setting include:

• Woody Allen’s Sleeper (1973) – Filmed at Boulder’s famous Mushroom House.
• Stephen King’s The Stand (1994) – The book and miniseries both feature Boulder as a central location.
• Catch and Release (2006) – A romantic comedy starring Jennifer Garner, filmed partially in Boulder.

A Timeless Legacy

Even though Mork & Mindy aired over 40 years ago, its presence still lingers in Boulder. Whether you’re visiting the famous house on Pine Street, reminiscing about Robin Williams’ genius, or spotting the show’s references in pop culture, Boulder’s Hollywood history remains as colorful as ever.

Nanu Nanu!

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