Vinnie Barbarino, played by John Travolta, was a memorable character in the 1970s sitcom “Welcome Back, Kotter.” Known for his cocky personality and comedic antics, Barbarino had several catchphrases that became iconic and are still remembered today.
Key Facts
- Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrase: “Up your nose with a rubber hose”.
- The catchphrase was originally “Up your hole with a Mello roll,” but it was changed to “Up your nose with a rubber hose” for TV use.
- Vinnie Barbarino had other catchphrases as well, such as “Wah-ha-ha-ha-howwww…” when he becomes love-stricken, and “What?” “Where?” “Why?” to feign ignorance.
- Vinnie Barbarino was known for his over-dramatized line “I’m so con-fused!”.
- He would often introduce himself by saying “I’m Vinnie Barbarino!” in an over-dramatized manner, especially when a girl snubbed or spurned him.
- Vinnie Barbarino would sometimes use the phrase “Off my case, toilet-face!” when someone angered him.
“Up Your Nose with a Rubber Hose”
Vinnie Barbarino’s most famous catchphrase is undoubtedly “Up your nose with a rubber hose!” This phrase was often used to express annoyance, frustration, or dismissal. It originated from the original catchphrase “Up your hole with a Mello roll,” which was considered too naughty for television use. The phrase became so popular that it was even featured in the theme song of the show.
“Wah-ha-ha-ha-howwww…”
Another one of Barbarino’s catchphrases was “Wah-ha-ha-ha-howwww…” This phrase was typically used when he became love-stricken or infatuated with a girl. It conveyed his excitement and eagerness to pursue a romantic relationship.
“What?” “Where?” “Why?”
Vinnie Barbarino frequently used the phrase “What?” “Where?” “Why?” to feign ignorance or confusion. This phrase was often employed when he was trying to avoid doing something he didn’t want to do or when he was caught in a situation he didn’t understand.
“I’m So Con-fused!”
Barbarino’s over-dramatized delivery of the line “I’m so con-fused!” became a signature catchphrase. This phrase was typically used to express his bewilderment or frustration in a humorous manner.
“I’m Vinnie Barbarino!”
Vinnie Barbarino would often introduce himself with the phrase “I’m Vinnie Barbarino!” in an over-dramatized manner. This phrase was particularly used when a girl snubbed or spurned him, emphasizing his confidence and self-assurance.
“Off My Case, Toilet-face!”
When someone angered or annoyed Vinnie Barbarino, he would sometimes use the phrase “Off my case, toilet-face!” This phrase conveyed his irritation and desire for the person to leave him alone.
Conclusion
Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases played a significant role in making the character memorable and beloved by audiences. These phrases not only added humor to the show but also became part of the cultural lexicon of the 1970s. Even today, these catchphrases continue to be referenced and remembered, demonstrating their lasting impact and popularity.
Sources
- https://asliceofbrooklyn.com/welcome-back-kotter-18-facts-you-never-knew/
- http://johntravoltafans.blogspot.com/2011/11/quotes.html
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072582/characters/nm0000237
FAQs
What was Vinnie Barbarino’s most famous catchphrase?
Vinnie Barbarino’s most famous catchphrase was “Up your nose with a rubber hose!”
What was the origin of the catchphrase “Up your nose with a rubber hose”?
The original catchphrase was “Up your hole with a Mello roll,” but it was changed to “Up your nose with a rubber hose” for TV use due to being considered too naughty.
What other catchphrases did Vinnie Barbarino have?
Vinnie Barbarino had other catchphrases such as “Wah-ha-ha-ha-howwww…” when he became love-stricken, “What?” “Where?” “Why?” to feign ignorance, and “I’m so con-fused!” in an over-dramatized manner.
When would Vinnie Barbarino say “I’m Vinnie Barbarino!”?
Vinnie Barbarino would often introduce himself with the phrase “I’m Vinnie Barbarino!” in an over-dramatized manner, especially when a girl snubbed or spurned him.
What was the significance of Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases?
Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases played a significant role in making the character memorable and beloved by audiences. They added humor to the show and became part of the cultural lexicon of the 1970s.
Are Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases still remembered today?
Yes, Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases continue to be referenced and remembered today, demonstrating their lasting impact and popularity.
Why did Vinnie Barbarino use the catchphrase “Off my case, toilet-face!”?
Vinnie Barbarino would sometimes use the phrase “Off my case, toilet-face!” when someone angered or annoyed him. This phrase conveyed his irritation and desire for the person to leave him alone.
How did Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases contribute to the overall success of the show “Welcome Back, Kotter”?
Vinnie Barbarino’s catchphrases became iconic and helped to make the show a memorable and beloved sitcom. They added humor and catchiness to the character, making him stand out and resonate with audiences.