Since winning over America’s heart in his breakout role as “The Fonz” on Happy Days, actor and writer Henry Winkler—often referred to as “the nicest man in Hollywood”—is still making us swoon. Whether it’s on-screen alongside Bill Hader in HBO hit Barry or penning his just-released memoir Being Henry (Celadon Books), Winkler’s brilliance is as bright as ever. Here, we check in with him ahead of his Chicago Humanities Festival appearance on Nov. 4. Francis W. Parker School, 330 W. Webster Ave.
Congratulations on your Emmy nomination for your role in Barry! What does recognition like that mean to you at this point in your career?
Recognition for what you do and how you do it never loses its power. Now, of course, I truly know I am not “the best” or “the only,” but to be acknowledged by your peers is gratifying.
What inspired you to write Being Henry?
For years, our youngest son, Max, had suggested that I write my story. And for years, I thought, “I’m dyslexic; I wouldn’t know where to start; I don’t know what to say.” But as the process unfolded, and I found James Kaplan to help me mold my life into a narrative, I started to really enjoy this opportunity.
What do you enjoy most about the writing process?
It conjures up memories that have been in the corner of my mind and were nearly forgotten. The back-and-forth banter with whomever my partner is pushes my imagination to its limit.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self starting your journey on Happy Days in 1974?
I would tell my younger self, “Buckle in—you have no idea how great the adventure is going to be.”
What keeps you passionate about performing?
In my work as an actor, I never lose my gratitude. I had a dream, and 50 years later, I’m still living it. I also love the process of discovery while creating a character— reading what the author writes about him, what other people say about him and adding my imagination.
Photography by: Andrew Eccles
