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Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond
Goodreads Choice Award
Winner for Readers' Favorite Humor (2023)From Emmy-award winning actor, author, comedian, producer, and director Henry Winkler, a deeply thoughtful memoir of the lifelong effects of stardom and the struggle to become whole.
Henry Winkler, launched into prominence by his role as “The Fonz” in the beloved Happy Days, has transcended the role that made him who he is. Brilliant, funny, and widely-regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood (though he would be the first to tell you that it’s simply not the case, he’s really just grateful to be here), Henry shares in this achingly vulnerable memoir the disheartening truth of his childhood, the difficulties of a life with severe dyslexia, the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own, and the path forward once your wildest dream seems behind you.
Since the glorious era of Happy Days fame, Henry has endeared himself to a new generation with roles in such adored shows as Arrested Development, Parks and Recreation, and Barry, where he’s revealed himself as an actor with immense depth and pathos, a departure from the period of his life when he was so distinctly typecast as The Fonz, he could hardly find work.
Filled with profound heart, charm, and self-deprecating humor, Being Henry is a memoir about so much more than a life in Hollywood and the curse of stardom. It is a meaningful testament to the power of sharing truth and kindness and of finding fulfillment within yourself.
Henry Winkler, launched into prominence by his role as “The Fonz” in the beloved Happy Days, has transcended the role that made him who he is. Brilliant, funny, and widely-regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood (though he would be the first to tell you that it’s simply not the case, he’s really just grateful to be here), Henry shares in this achingly vulnerable memoir the disheartening truth of his childhood, the difficulties of a life with severe dyslexia, the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own, and the path forward once your wildest dream seems behind you.
Since the glorious era of Happy Days fame, Henry has endeared himself to a new generation with roles in such adored shows as Arrested Development, Parks and Recreation, and Barry, where he’s revealed himself as an actor with immense depth and pathos, a departure from the period of his life when he was so distinctly typecast as The Fonz, he could hardly find work.
Filled with profound heart, charm, and self-deprecating humor, Being Henry is a memoir about so much more than a life in Hollywood and the curse of stardom. It is a meaningful testament to the power of sharing truth and kindness and of finding fulfillment within yourself.
Hardcover
First published October 31, 2023
1361 people are currently reading
40638 people want to read
About the author
Henry Winkler
121 books562 followersHenry Winkler is instantly recognizable and admired by audiences of all ages for his role as the Fonz on the long-running series, Happy Days. In addition, he is an award-winning producer and director of family and children's programming. He is also the author of the critically-acclaimed Hank Zipzer series, which follows the everyday adventures of a bright boy with learning challenges.
Mr. Winkler has also continued his acting career on the big screen, including a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in Nightshift, a starring role in the box-office hit Scream, and co-starring roles in The Water Boy, and Holes. On television, he has guest-starred on ABC's The Practice and NBC's Law & Order: SVU. He recently starred on Broadway for nine months in Neil Simon's play The Dinner Party.
Mr. Winkler is deeply committed to children's welfare and works with numerous children's groups. He is involved with The MacLaren Children's Center (a facility for abused children), The National Committee for Arts for the Handicapped, The Special Olympics, and The Los Angeles Music Center's Very Special Arts Festival, as well as numerous teenage alcohol and drug abuse programs. He is a founding member of the Children's Action Network, a non-profit organization that sponsors informational briefings for writers, producers and directors on children's issues and serves as a clearing-house for the entertainment industry on children's issues.
Mr. Winkler has also continued his acting career on the big screen, including a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in Nightshift, a starring role in the box-office hit Scream, and co-starring roles in The Water Boy, and Holes. On television, he has guest-starred on ABC's The Practice and NBC's Law & Order: SVU. He recently starred on Broadway for nine months in Neil Simon's play The Dinner Party.
Mr. Winkler is deeply committed to children's welfare and works with numerous children's groups. He is involved with The MacLaren Children's Center (a facility for abused children), The National Committee for Arts for the Handicapped, The Special Olympics, and The Los Angeles Music Center's Very Special Arts Festival, as well as numerous teenage alcohol and drug abuse programs. He is a founding member of the Children's Action Network, a non-profit organization that sponsors informational briefings for writers, producers and directors on children's issues and serves as a clearing-house for the entertainment industry on children's issues.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,264 reviews
December 12, 2023
Sometimes, on rare occasions, you read a memoir and feel like you’ve made a new friend. That’s the case here. Henry is a fantastic storyteller, and I could feel his voice and energy leaping from every page.
Being Henry is a great mix of career, family, and personal insight. I admire Henry for laying it all out there; his vulnerabilities and challenges. It’s a lesson in self-awareness and ability to critique oneself with honesty and respect. Like many, I loved The Fonz – his audition for this famous role was the perfect way to start the book.
“The sheer impossibility of it liberated me - made me feel that once my name was called, I could waltz in and do anything at all.”
You can’t help but admire Henry for the way he tackles fear and uncertainty. He teaches us, through example, how to live with and embrace both. Whether it be diving into therapy (I’m sure this will encourage others) or dealing with dyslexia, and parents who belittled him. It’s reassuring to know the guy who epitomised “cool” faced insecurities of his own.
“But even in the midst of Happy Days, at the height of my fame and success, I felt embarrassed, inadequate.”
Henry Winkler is known for being down to earth and funny - this memoir takes it next level. Wholesome perfectly describes it. Some of the most touching moments involved his charity work and marriage to wife, Stacey – I loved her input. I also enjoyed the frequency that Henry talked about his beloved dogs.
You can’t help but feel uplifted, as he makes such habit of uplifting others mentioned in the book. His Happy Days anecdotes and friendship with Ron Howard were great to read. So too, his work in Scream, and with Adam Sandler, Robin Williams, and John Ritter. The latter was heartbreaking – I had no idea Henry worked with John the day he died.
“It’s so funny about time - you get into these nice little grooves with people you love, and you think it’ll go on forever. But time goes so fast, and nothing goes on forever.”
In a book that covers such a remarkable life and career, one of my biggest takeaways was Henry’s advice on how to counter negative self-talk. I’ll certainly try to “never finish a negative sentence” moving forward.
Being Henry is touching, hilarious and inspiring - guaranteed smiles. It's the kind of book that leaves you feeling good. A worthy winner of the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Humor. Here's to all the moist chocolate Bundt cakes with soft chocolate chips.
“All you have to do is try, and you will amaze yourself.”
Being Henry is a great mix of career, family, and personal insight. I admire Henry for laying it all out there; his vulnerabilities and challenges. It’s a lesson in self-awareness and ability to critique oneself with honesty and respect. Like many, I loved The Fonz – his audition for this famous role was the perfect way to start the book.
“The sheer impossibility of it liberated me - made me feel that once my name was called, I could waltz in and do anything at all.”
You can’t help but admire Henry for the way he tackles fear and uncertainty. He teaches us, through example, how to live with and embrace both. Whether it be diving into therapy (I’m sure this will encourage others) or dealing with dyslexia, and parents who belittled him. It’s reassuring to know the guy who epitomised “cool” faced insecurities of his own.
“But even in the midst of Happy Days, at the height of my fame and success, I felt embarrassed, inadequate.”
Henry Winkler is known for being down to earth and funny - this memoir takes it next level. Wholesome perfectly describes it. Some of the most touching moments involved his charity work and marriage to wife, Stacey – I loved her input. I also enjoyed the frequency that Henry talked about his beloved dogs.
You can’t help but feel uplifted, as he makes such habit of uplifting others mentioned in the book. His Happy Days anecdotes and friendship with Ron Howard were great to read. So too, his work in Scream, and with Adam Sandler, Robin Williams, and John Ritter. The latter was heartbreaking – I had no idea Henry worked with John the day he died.
“It’s so funny about time - you get into these nice little grooves with people you love, and you think it’ll go on forever. But time goes so fast, and nothing goes on forever.”
In a book that covers such a remarkable life and career, one of my biggest takeaways was Henry’s advice on how to counter negative self-talk. I’ll certainly try to “never finish a negative sentence” moving forward.
Being Henry is touching, hilarious and inspiring - guaranteed smiles. It's the kind of book that leaves you feeling good. A worthy winner of the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Humor. Here's to all the moist chocolate Bundt cakes with soft chocolate chips.
“All you have to do is try, and you will amaze yourself.”
December 7, 2023
***CONGRATULATION ON THE GOODREADS CHOICE AWARD - BEST HUMOR - WELL DESERVED!! ***
I was raising my daughters during the late 70’s and early 80’s and watched every rerun of “Happy Days”. This was a safe show for them to watch. It was funny and the characters were wonderful. The fact that I live in a suburb of Milwaukee - where the show was set, added to the fun!! We even have a full sized sculpture of “The Fonz” along the city’s Riverwest area!!
Henry struggled with dyslexia his entire life. It was such a revelation and I’m in awe at how he managed to go to Emerson and then Yale!!
“I didn’t find out that I was severely dyslexic until I was thirty-one. For all those years I was the kid who couldn’t read, couldn’t spell, couldn’t even begin to do algebra of geometry or even basic arithmetic”.
We follow Henry through the early stardom from “Happy Days” but also how it led to him being stereotyped as “The Fonz” when the show was over. I haven’t watched “Barry” on HBO, but I will now, it sounds great!
He has written a highly successful series of books for children about a character who had dyslexia. “The Hank Zipser” books were eventually made into a series by BBC. He has also written other children's books that sound wonderful!
My biggest take away from reading this memoir is Henry’s gratitude. He is so thankful for the actors, directors, producers and everyone who was with him on his life’s journey and he names them all. His wife Stacey writes some insightful passages in the book.
I could go on and on but I’ll stop and leave the rest of this wonderful memoir for you to discover. Even if you don’t usually read memoirs – read this one! I truly felt that Henry was here, talking to me about his life!! That is a very special experience.
My thanks to Celadon Books for the gifted galley of this memoir. It was my pleasure to read and review this title which is set to publish in October of 2023.
#CeladonReads
#BeingHenry
@CeladonBooks
I was raising my daughters during the late 70’s and early 80’s and watched every rerun of “Happy Days”. This was a safe show for them to watch. It was funny and the characters were wonderful. The fact that I live in a suburb of Milwaukee - where the show was set, added to the fun!! We even have a full sized sculpture of “The Fonz” along the city’s Riverwest area!!
Henry struggled with dyslexia his entire life. It was such a revelation and I’m in awe at how he managed to go to Emerson and then Yale!!
“I didn’t find out that I was severely dyslexic until I was thirty-one. For all those years I was the kid who couldn’t read, couldn’t spell, couldn’t even begin to do algebra of geometry or even basic arithmetic”.
We follow Henry through the early stardom from “Happy Days” but also how it led to him being stereotyped as “The Fonz” when the show was over. I haven’t watched “Barry” on HBO, but I will now, it sounds great!
He has written a highly successful series of books for children about a character who had dyslexia. “The Hank Zipser” books were eventually made into a series by BBC. He has also written other children's books that sound wonderful!
My biggest take away from reading this memoir is Henry’s gratitude. He is so thankful for the actors, directors, producers and everyone who was with him on his life’s journey and he names them all. His wife Stacey writes some insightful passages in the book.
I could go on and on but I’ll stop and leave the rest of this wonderful memoir for you to discover. Even if you don’t usually read memoirs – read this one! I truly felt that Henry was here, talking to me about his life!! That is a very special experience.
My thanks to Celadon Books for the gifted galley of this memoir. It was my pleasure to read and review this title which is set to publish in October of 2023.
#CeladonReads
#BeingHenry
@CeladonBooks
September 20, 2023
Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond is an outstanding, captivating, and heartfelt memoir by Henry Winkler! I listened to it on audiobook. It is narrated by Henry Winkler with several narration sessions by his wife, Stacey Winkler. They are both phenomenal narrators with tons of voice intonation, humor, humility, and self-awareness.
The book shares Henry's childhood and his fifty years in Hollywood. The character Fonz is very different from Henry. Henry has dyslexia but wasn't diagnosed until he was thirty-four years old. He struggles to read and works incredibly hard to memorize his lines. Henry is not confident and worries a lot, oftentimes about money.
Henry's memoir shares stories about his children, grandchildren, and dogs as well as the family's commitment to helping children through philanthropic efforts. I did not know that Henry and Lin Oliver have written thirty-nine children's books; the first one is called Niagara Falls, Or Does It??
A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC for this wonderful memoir!
Highly, highly recommend!
The book shares Henry's childhood and his fifty years in Hollywood. The character Fonz is very different from Henry. Henry has dyslexia but wasn't diagnosed until he was thirty-four years old. He struggles to read and works incredibly hard to memorize his lines. Henry is not confident and worries a lot, oftentimes about money.
Henry's memoir shares stories about his children, grandchildren, and dogs as well as the family's commitment to helping children through philanthropic efforts. I did not know that Henry and Lin Oliver have written thirty-nine children's books; the first one is called Niagara Falls, Or Does It??
A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC for this wonderful memoir!
Highly, highly recommend!
Read
January 26, 2024i'm not old enough to remember Happy Days but i do know Henry Winkler from his more recent work in shows like Parks & Rec and Barry. he seems like a lovely guy but i wouldn't have picked this up had it not been for a video i'm working on.
that being said, this was a really pleasant way to pass the time. Henry is reflective, funny, and most of all incredibly sincere. i liked hearing about his life, his success, and his feelings of inadequacy. i didn't think i'd relate much to a man in his 70s but i think what i appreciated most about this book was the wisdom gleaned from his experiences. there's quite a few good nuggets of advice in here.
i'm not sure this was funny enough to warrant a choice award, but it is a pretty good autobiography/memoir.
that being said, this was a really pleasant way to pass the time. Henry is reflective, funny, and most of all incredibly sincere. i liked hearing about his life, his success, and his feelings of inadequacy. i didn't think i'd relate much to a man in his 70s but i think what i appreciated most about this book was the wisdom gleaned from his experiences. there's quite a few good nuggets of advice in here.
i'm not sure this was funny enough to warrant a choice award, but it is a pretty good autobiography/memoir.
March 17, 2025
Every Tuesday night, the world would stop as I sat myself in front of the television at 8:00 p.m. to watch my favorite sitcom, “Happy Days.” In the beginning, I had a crush on Ron Howard’s character, Richie Cunningham.
I know…I’m dating myself, telling you this story.
But then…You need to know my motivation for reading Henry’s story, right?
Back to Tuesday nights…
I was like any swooning girl, when Henry Winkler’s Fonzie entered the screen. How could we not resist, the super-cool, loyal guy wearing the infamous leather jacket? (Now part of the Smithsonian Museum collection in Washington, D.C.)
Besides…When the Fonz spoke, people listened.
So…As a fan-girl, I watched the evolution of Henry Winkler as he moved beyond “Happy Days.”
At first…All I could see was the Fonz…
But…Eventually, he came into his own as he developed new stage presences with the characters he would create. One being the Dad in the hit television show, “Royal Pains.”
Did you ever see that show?
If not…I highly recommend it. Perhaps your local library might have it available.
It was… A delightful, humorous, comedy-drama that was brilliantly acted and written.
There are other shows and movies to his extensive resume, but “Happy Days” and “Royal Pains” resonated with me the most.
And so… When his memoir came out, I was interested. Could I see beyond the screen persona, or the tabloid articles?
I believe in factual evidence.
And…The fact that he was writing his story, I was ready to read it.
To be honest, I did not expect this.
First…I was greeted with a short book. So far, every memoir or biography I have read recently on any actor/celebrity has been huge…(translated: so many pages.) This one is less than 250 pages!
Second…I read an honest, gripping story which could have made anyone sad (especially reading about his childhood)…
But…Instead, he told it with humor, and grace and a quickness that sometimes I found myself holding my breath.
Because…He breezed through chapters in his life quickly and matter-of-factly, while not holding back, or dwelling on any one subject, either. I found myself, although spinning with details of his life, I couldn’t help but feel grateful he wasn’t wasting pages with minutia.
In fact…He got right to the point.
He knew he wanted to be an actor since he was a child. Early on in his story, he shared something that I could relate to, because of my own life experience.
When I was younger, my mother was concerned that because I was too shy, I wasn’t making friends. She wanted to find a way for me to come out of my shell.
So…In speaking with a counselor, they determined that I should take an acting class in my first year in high school. At first, I was terrified of being in front of so many people, but, when I was on stage, something magical happened to me.
And…I believe Henry described it best…
“When I was on a stage, playing someone else, I was transported to another world, one where pretending made you successful. What I was miserable at was being myself.”
I know that person he is describing…that was me, too!
And thus…A kinship was developed. I continued to read his story with interest.
About…The quiet unassuming guy with no confidence in his abilities beyond his comedic talent as “the Fonz.”
Of course…It doesn’t help when everyone (including this reader) only sees him as “the Fonz.”
Can he break out of his popular stereotype and evolve as an actor…
Or…Better yet, be accepted in differing roles?
Through his self-consciousness, as readers, we come to know the real Henry Winkler.
And…We are treated to a raw, honest and thoughtful portrayal of life in his lane.
Which…Led me to love him even more.
I know…I’m dating myself, telling you this story.
But then…You need to know my motivation for reading Henry’s story, right?
Back to Tuesday nights…
I was like any swooning girl, when Henry Winkler’s Fonzie entered the screen. How could we not resist, the super-cool, loyal guy wearing the infamous leather jacket? (Now part of the Smithsonian Museum collection in Washington, D.C.)
Besides…When the Fonz spoke, people listened.
So…As a fan-girl, I watched the evolution of Henry Winkler as he moved beyond “Happy Days.”
At first…All I could see was the Fonz…
But…Eventually, he came into his own as he developed new stage presences with the characters he would create. One being the Dad in the hit television show, “Royal Pains.”
Did you ever see that show?
If not…I highly recommend it. Perhaps your local library might have it available.
It was… A delightful, humorous, comedy-drama that was brilliantly acted and written.
There are other shows and movies to his extensive resume, but “Happy Days” and “Royal Pains” resonated with me the most.
And so… When his memoir came out, I was interested. Could I see beyond the screen persona, or the tabloid articles?
I believe in factual evidence.
And…The fact that he was writing his story, I was ready to read it.
To be honest, I did not expect this.
First…I was greeted with a short book. So far, every memoir or biography I have read recently on any actor/celebrity has been huge…(translated: so many pages.) This one is less than 250 pages!
Second…I read an honest, gripping story which could have made anyone sad (especially reading about his childhood)…
But…Instead, he told it with humor, and grace and a quickness that sometimes I found myself holding my breath.
Because…He breezed through chapters in his life quickly and matter-of-factly, while not holding back, or dwelling on any one subject, either. I found myself, although spinning with details of his life, I couldn’t help but feel grateful he wasn’t wasting pages with minutia.
In fact…He got right to the point.
He knew he wanted to be an actor since he was a child. Early on in his story, he shared something that I could relate to, because of my own life experience.
When I was younger, my mother was concerned that because I was too shy, I wasn’t making friends. She wanted to find a way for me to come out of my shell.
So…In speaking with a counselor, they determined that I should take an acting class in my first year in high school. At first, I was terrified of being in front of so many people, but, when I was on stage, something magical happened to me.
And…I believe Henry described it best…
“When I was on a stage, playing someone else, I was transported to another world, one where pretending made you successful. What I was miserable at was being myself.”
I know that person he is describing…that was me, too!
And thus…A kinship was developed. I continued to read his story with interest.
About…The quiet unassuming guy with no confidence in his abilities beyond his comedic talent as “the Fonz.”
Of course…It doesn’t help when everyone (including this reader) only sees him as “the Fonz.”
Can he break out of his popular stereotype and evolve as an actor…
Or…Better yet, be accepted in differing roles?
Through his self-consciousness, as readers, we come to know the real Henry Winkler.
And…We are treated to a raw, honest and thoughtful portrayal of life in his lane.
Which…Led me to love him even more.
October 6, 2023
I so liked Henry before, and after listening to his story, I like him even more. 🩷
So if you are a person who loved Happy Days, and of course loved The Fonz, then you will very much enjoy Henry Winkler’s autobiographical sketch on his life.
A young Jewish man coming to fame when least expecting it is the theme and shows us how Henry is a vulnerable young man growing to adulthood. He is a shy, loved deprived young man, a product of German Jews who always conveyed to Henry that he was just not good enough.
Yet, through his portrayal of The Fonzie, he captured the heart and love of America. This aura followed him and yet Henry kept searching for more, a something that made him feel worthy and made him rise above the others who strove to be masters of their craft.
Henry’s story is a lesson in growing, a lesson in knowing there is more in life than acclaim and recognition. He and his beloved wife of forty-seven years share their thoughts and insights into what makes Henry a person who strives to be someone beyond The Fonz. It is a journey of self recognition, a realization that all people evolve and change that while acclamation is often wonderful, it’s not the goal of life.
If you loved Henry as the Fonz, Henry in this book would make you love him even more.
Thank you to Henry Winkler, and Net Galley for the ability to listen to this wonderful book,
So if you are a person who loved Happy Days, and of course loved The Fonz, then you will very much enjoy Henry Winkler’s autobiographical sketch on his life.
A young Jewish man coming to fame when least expecting it is the theme and shows us how Henry is a vulnerable young man growing to adulthood. He is a shy, loved deprived young man, a product of German Jews who always conveyed to Henry that he was just not good enough.
Yet, through his portrayal of The Fonzie, he captured the heart and love of America. This aura followed him and yet Henry kept searching for more, a something that made him feel worthy and made him rise above the others who strove to be masters of their craft.
Henry’s story is a lesson in growing, a lesson in knowing there is more in life than acclaim and recognition. He and his beloved wife of forty-seven years share their thoughts and insights into what makes Henry a person who strives to be someone beyond The Fonz. It is a journey of self recognition, a realization that all people evolve and change that while acclamation is often wonderful, it’s not the goal of life.
If you loved Henry as the Fonz, Henry in this book would make you love him even more.
Thank you to Henry Winkler, and Net Galley for the ability to listen to this wonderful book,
October 27, 2024
**Many thanks to @CeladonBooks and Henry Winkler for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 10.31!**
"I wasn't trying to be better than anyone else. I was just trying to be my best self. Which in itself was problematic, because I was, in my head, always a little boy. Without any real handle on who my adult self was.
What a strange secret to be carrying around when you're supposed to be the coolest guy in the world."
There are very few actors who can say they developed and portrayed a character that literally became its own archetype, the epitome of cool itself: but Henry Winkler can. But do you know the man BEHIND the effortlessly hip, chill, and commanding Fonz? Henry's here to tell you his life story...and he isn't afraid to peel back the curtain.
Growing up under two strict parents who demanded nothing short of perfection from their children, Henry's journey towards self-actualization was a long one. Henry has severe dyslexia, but in his younger years this affliction helped to color his parents' opinion of his intelligence (they even called him a nickname in his childhood years that translates to "Dumb Dog"...which was so heartbreaking to read! 😢) and of course, left Henry feeling like he was so far behind the other kids and could never live up to his potential..and that meant he certainly couldn't memorize and perform scripts!
As a budding actor with everything on the line, Winkler made a decision to improvise most of a monologue on an audition to the Yale School of Drama with something that SOUNDED Shakespearean after realizing he couldn't recall a single word of the script...and the rest is history. Thus began an acting career that would challenge, test, and push him outside his comfort zone over and over again...and would give him the courage to ask out his now wife, not to mention taking an audition for a little show called Happy Days that would change the landscape of the family sitcom forever.
But with becoming an iconic and inimitable character comes a steep price: the danger of typecasting. And herein lies the rub: what path do you take when the world decides you are the absolute BEST...at playing ONE type of character? What follows is a unique and unpredictable tale, that takes you through Henry's directorial debut, and the long road to his more recent roles in Arrested Development and Barry...with the interesting story of how he took his childhood struggles and morphed them into a book series, Hank Zipzer, with a dyslexic hero at its center, striving to show kids all over the world how dyslexia not only shouldn't define them, but could be its very own superpower.
The book is also interspersed with bits of interviews with Winkler's wife, Stacey, which not only serve as lovely asides that also help to fill in tiny gaps of memory, but also offer an outsider's perspective on both Henry as a person and the relationship between this long-time couple. The most lovely and encompassing aspect of this memoir, however, isn't Winkler's trademark quick wit and kind spirit: it is his unwavering and unflinching honesty. Winkler is vulnerable, open, and in a sense...fearless. Many in his position would choose to keep their therapy journey private, or would skim over the insecurity they felt in younger (or even older!) years...but not Henry.
It is this very vulnerability that takes this memoir over the top and keeps it from feeling like a simple autobiography: by journey's end, I truly felt like I knew what it was like to BE Henry. And although in so many ways, Henry is best known for being such wonderful characters and "being" someone else, his greatest gift to his family, friends, and his legions of fans has been to show us the fascinating mind and the kind heart of the incredible man he was born to be: himself.
4.5 stars
#BeingHenry #CeladonReads #partner
Winner of the Goodreads Choice Awards for Best Humor! Now available in paperback!
"I wasn't trying to be better than anyone else. I was just trying to be my best self. Which in itself was problematic, because I was, in my head, always a little boy. Without any real handle on who my adult self was.
What a strange secret to be carrying around when you're supposed to be the coolest guy in the world."
There are very few actors who can say they developed and portrayed a character that literally became its own archetype, the epitome of cool itself: but Henry Winkler can. But do you know the man BEHIND the effortlessly hip, chill, and commanding Fonz? Henry's here to tell you his life story...and he isn't afraid to peel back the curtain.
Growing up under two strict parents who demanded nothing short of perfection from their children, Henry's journey towards self-actualization was a long one. Henry has severe dyslexia, but in his younger years this affliction helped to color his parents' opinion of his intelligence (they even called him a nickname in his childhood years that translates to "Dumb Dog"...which was so heartbreaking to read! 😢) and of course, left Henry feeling like he was so far behind the other kids and could never live up to his potential..and that meant he certainly couldn't memorize and perform scripts!
As a budding actor with everything on the line, Winkler made a decision to improvise most of a monologue on an audition to the Yale School of Drama with something that SOUNDED Shakespearean after realizing he couldn't recall a single word of the script...and the rest is history. Thus began an acting career that would challenge, test, and push him outside his comfort zone over and over again...and would give him the courage to ask out his now wife, not to mention taking an audition for a little show called Happy Days that would change the landscape of the family sitcom forever.
But with becoming an iconic and inimitable character comes a steep price: the danger of typecasting. And herein lies the rub: what path do you take when the world decides you are the absolute BEST...at playing ONE type of character? What follows is a unique and unpredictable tale, that takes you through Henry's directorial debut, and the long road to his more recent roles in Arrested Development and Barry...with the interesting story of how he took his childhood struggles and morphed them into a book series, Hank Zipzer, with a dyslexic hero at its center, striving to show kids all over the world how dyslexia not only shouldn't define them, but could be its very own superpower.
The book is also interspersed with bits of interviews with Winkler's wife, Stacey, which not only serve as lovely asides that also help to fill in tiny gaps of memory, but also offer an outsider's perspective on both Henry as a person and the relationship between this long-time couple. The most lovely and encompassing aspect of this memoir, however, isn't Winkler's trademark quick wit and kind spirit: it is his unwavering and unflinching honesty. Winkler is vulnerable, open, and in a sense...fearless. Many in his position would choose to keep their therapy journey private, or would skim over the insecurity they felt in younger (or even older!) years...but not Henry.
It is this very vulnerability that takes this memoir over the top and keeps it from feeling like a simple autobiography: by journey's end, I truly felt like I knew what it was like to BE Henry. And although in so many ways, Henry is best known for being such wonderful characters and "being" someone else, his greatest gift to his family, friends, and his legions of fans has been to show us the fascinating mind and the kind heart of the incredible man he was born to be: himself.
4.5 stars
#BeingHenry #CeladonReads #partner
Winner of the Goodreads Choice Awards for Best Humor! Now available in paperback!
January 7, 2024
Once in a while you come across a memoir that pulls at your heartstrings well Being Henry The Fonz & Beyond did that for me, he was brought up by Jewish parents who belittled him throughout his childhood, they thought he was dumb& would never amount to nothing Henry Winkler wasn’t diagnosed with Dyslexia until he was 34 little did they know years later how much of a talent he was.
He talks about his time in Happy Days my favourite show his friendships he has made & after Happy Days finished ✅ how being known as The Fonz stifled his acting opportunities I could go on for hours about this book, but I want other readers to just sip a cup of tea 🍵 or coffee ☕️ take time out to know the real Henry Winkler the man who is so appealing, down to earth & human I just loved this one all those shiny 🌟.
He talks about his time in Happy Days my favourite show his friendships he has made & after Happy Days finished ✅ how being known as The Fonz stifled his acting opportunities I could go on for hours about this book, but I want other readers to just sip a cup of tea 🍵 or coffee ☕️ take time out to know the real Henry Winkler the man who is so appealing, down to earth & human I just loved this one all those shiny 🌟.
September 15, 2023
Such a good book!
These are little stories from his life that bring joy and amazement to readers. He has a few other autobiographies that go more in depth in his life, but I felt like this one was a fun collection of stories that encompasses who Henry Winkler is as a person.
Would definitely recommend! - Alyssa C.
These are little stories from his life that bring joy and amazement to readers. He has a few other autobiographies that go more in depth in his life, but I felt like this one was a fun collection of stories that encompasses who Henry Winkler is as a person.
Would definitely recommend! - Alyssa C.
May 13, 2025
To television fans of a certain generation, Henry Winkler will always be associated with Fonzie - the charismatic, motorcycle-riding, cool guy he played in the sitcom 'Happy Days.' Winkler has also been called the nicest man in Hollywood, and this memoir supports that impression.
Henry Winkler as Fonzie
Winkler, born in New York City in 1945, didn't have it easy as a youngster. Winkler's parents, Ilsa and Harry, were Jewish German immigrants who expected their son to make them proud. Unfortunately, Henry was severely dyslexic and couldn't learn to read or do math. This led to constant criticism from Ilsa and Harry, who thought punishing Henry would make him do better in school. So Ilsa and Harry grounded Henry, forbid him to watch television, called him names, shamed him, sent him to summer school year after year, and more.....all to no avail.
Young Henry Winkler
Moreover, Harry wanted his son to take over the family lumber business, and sent Henry to be a summer apprentice at a lumber mill in Germany. However, from a young age, Henry only wanted to act. Winkler writes, "I can't remember not feeling an intense need to perform. I recall putting on my sister's muumuu bathrobe, applying some makeup, and popping out into my parents' parties with little dramatic presentations."
Despite being in the bottom three percent of students in the country, Winkler managed to get into Emerson College and then the Yale School of Drama. Afterwards, Henry was invited to join the Yale Repertory Theatre in 1970, which he found to be "so much fun; so exhilarating."
In time Winkler got an agent named Joan Scott and started getting television commercials for things like American Airlines, Sanka coffee, and Talon zippers.
Henry Winkler in a Sanka commercial
Henry's first 'big' role was Butchey Weinstein in the movie 'The Lords of Flatbush', which was about "four leather-jacketed guys who were more interested in making it with girls than rumbling with other gangs."
Henry Winkler in The Lords of Flatbush. From left: Paul Mace, Sylvester Stallone, Henry Winkler, Perry King
Winkler repeatedly notes that he's "very careful" with money, but in 1973 he took his entire savings of $1000 and flew to Los Angeles, to try his luck in Hollywood. Henry never even considered paying for lodging, but couch-surfed and phone-surfed, trying to get work. Winkler was even too frugal to get headshots, and carried his resumes in a brown paper grocery bag instead of a leather portfolio like other actors.
Nevertheless, Winkler began to get roles, starting with a guest shot on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show', and then the part of Arthur Fonzarelli (Fonzie) on 'Happy Days.
Henry Winkler on The Mary Tyler Moore Show
A good part of the book discusses 'Happy Days', including what happened when the Fonzie character became more popular than the Richie character, played by Ron Howard, who was supposed to be the star of the show.
Happy Days Cast. Front Row: Don Most, Erin Moran, Marion Ross, Ron Howard. Back Row: Henry Winkler, Tom Bosley, Anson Williams
Sadly, Winkler learned there's a downside to fame, because after playing Fonzie for eleven years Henry was SO typecast he had difficulty finding other acting roles, and had to work in other areas of show business for many years.
In 1976 Henry met Stacey Weitzman, the pretty, red-headed, single mother of a little boy named Jed.....and it was romance at first sight. The couple eventually wed, had two children called Zoe and Max, and have been married for 47 years. Winkler writes a good bit about his family, of whom he's very proud.
Henry Winkler and Stacey Weitzman
Henry Winkler and Stacey Weitzman get married in a Manhattan synagogue
Henry Winkler, Stacey Weitzman, and their children
Winkler includes many personal anecdotes in the book. For example, Henry writes: "My love of gardening started with spider plants, all of them descendants of a single plant that Tante Anna (Aunt Anna) had smuggled out of Nazi Germany along with herself in, believe it or not, a coffin."
Henry Winkler with one of his spider plants
The Winkler family also loved dogs, and after some of their brood succumbed to old age, Henry observes, "Our home clearly needed some puppy energy, and Waffles, a Wheaten Terrier, came along to fill the bill, or so it seemed at first. Because Waffles, it turned out, had just one goal in life. To run around the pool at top speed. [Our son] Jed was ten, and he needed a dog he could interact with. Enter Tootsie Anna Marie, a beautiful black lab. When Jed and I played catch, and as Waffles zoomed around the pool in the background, Tootsie played outfield. If Jed or I missed a catch, she brought the ball right back to me and politely dropped it in my mitt."
Henry Winkler loves dogs
Winkler also writes about himself and his wife Stacey working with challenged and troubled children; Stacey's battle with breast cancer; Henry's lifelong resentment of his parents; Henry and Stacey's son Max growing up to become a director; Henry and Stacey's daughter Zoe growing up to become a children's teacher; Henry's therapy; and much more.
Getting back to Winkler's career, after playing Fonzie, he produced 'McGyver' and other popular television shows; did voice acting in animated programs; took up directing; did some movies and plays; and eventually became a popular actor again in television shows like 'Arrested Development', 'Parks and Recreation', and 'Barry.'
Henry Winkler plays an incompetent lawyer in Arrested Development
Henry Winkler plays an obstetrician in Parks and Recreation
Henry Winkler plays an acting teacher in Barry
Winkler also used his experience with dyslexia to write a series of children's novels with author Lin Oliver, about a boy named Hank Zipzer who has learning difficulties. Henry began giving talks across the country about his struggles and notes, "I've now given hundreds of these talks.... and it is wonderful to see what a positive force the Fonz has been in so many people's lives.....it is about us, all the people who have felt less than because of something wired in their brain from birth, something that was not their fault."
Hank Zipzer books
Winkler speaks well of most people he met during his long career, and his book is a 'who's who' of show business folks, including acting teachers, agents, managers, writers, publicists, directors, producers, actors, actresses, etc. It feels like Henry has met every well-known person in the western entertainment industry. Lamentably, a few Hollywood bigwigs were not very congenial, such as producer/director John Rich, and they get a mention as well.
Henry Winkler with Ron Howard and John Ritter
Henry Winkler with Steven Spielberg and Amy Irving
Henry Winkler with Adam Sandler
Henry Winkler with Kathy Bates
Henry Winkler with Jean Smart
Try as Winkler might, he'll never get away from being the Fonz. Henry writes, "People come up to me all the time. I hold their hands, I look them in the eye. They say, My father and I watched you. I can't believe I'm meeting you.....Oh my God. My daughter and I watched you.....Oh my God. My grandmother and I watched you.....Or they're filming you with their phone".....and so on. Quite a legacy.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Henry Winkler, and it was great to hear Henry's story in his own voice.
Thanks to Netgalley, Henry Winkler, and Macmillan Audio for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
May 7, 2024
Being Henry: The Fonz…and Beyond by Henry Winkler
Synopsis /
Henry Winkler, launched into prominence by his role as 'The Fonz' in the beloved TV series Happy Days, has transcended the role that made him who he is. Brilliant, funny and widely regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood (though he would be the first to tell you that it's simply not the case, he's just really grateful to be there), Henry shares, in the achingly vulnerable memoir, the disheartening truth of his childhood, the difficulties of a life with severe dyslexia, the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own, and the path forward once your wildest dream seems behind you. Today, Henry has endeared himself to a new generation with roles in Arrested Development, Parks and Recreation and Barry, where he's revealed himself as an actor with immense depth and pathos, a departure from the period in his life when he was so distinctly typecast as 'The Fonz' he could hardly find work. Filled with profound heart, charm and self-deprecating humour, this memoir is about so much more than a life in Hollywood and the curse of stardom. It is a meaningful testament to the power of sharing truth and kindness, and of finding fulfilment within yourself.
My Thoughts /
As I finally finish reading the last sentence of this book and close the cover, here are just a few of my first memories:
😎 You are now 78 years young.
😎 You're dyslexic.
😎 You have a beautiful wife (Stacey), children and grandchildren, and live a humble life.
😎 Your love for gardening began with Spider Plants.
😎 I now know that your acting career is so much more diverse than I had ever imagined.
😎 You co-wrote a 28 book series called "Hank Zipzer: The World's Greatest Underachiever" - about the adventures of a young boy with dyslexia who overcomes many learning challenges - and is largely based on your own experiences with your undiagnosed dyslexia.
😎 There is so much more to you than The Fonz.
😎 Your memoir reads like you are having a coffee catchup with a long-lost friend.
In Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond, Henry Winkler reflects back on both his personal and professional life in an open and honest tell-all memoir.
From the beginning, Winkler does a deep dive into his childhood, as the second son of German Jewish immigrant parents. He doesn't shy away from the fact that he had a troubled relationship with his Holocaust surviving parents - his father falsified documents for short-term travel to America, just prior to the closure of international travel to German citizens, telling no one that the move was permanent.
He struggled with his academic education and found comfort and a level of security in the theatrical arts. He had a passion for performing and entertaining. And although at the time, his undiagnosed dyslexia made learning lines frustratingly difficult, he persisted and was a master of improv. His parents however, while having a love of theatre and music, did not think of it as a suitable career choice for their son.
He details his struggle to find work, both before and after his role as Arthur Fonzarelli in Happy Days. His acting roles have endeared him to multiple generations, and yet he writes: “At the height of my fame and success, I felt embarrassed, inadequate”.
He recalls with candour about seeing a therapist to work through his self-doubts and vulnerabilities.
Some chapters are interspersed with snippets written by his wife of 40+ years, Stacey, and these I absolutely adored. Stacey is brutally honest about her husband's immaturity, his parenting, and his crippling fear of poverty (is this a hand-me-down from his own parents?). But above all else, she paints the portrait of a man, simply trying to become a better man - and that deserves a big thumbs up!
I'm so grateful that you've taken the time to write this book, and feel so blessed to have finally read it.
Synopsis /
Henry Winkler, launched into prominence by his role as 'The Fonz' in the beloved TV series Happy Days, has transcended the role that made him who he is. Brilliant, funny and widely regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood (though he would be the first to tell you that it's simply not the case, he's just really grateful to be there), Henry shares, in the achingly vulnerable memoir, the disheartening truth of his childhood, the difficulties of a life with severe dyslexia, the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own, and the path forward once your wildest dream seems behind you. Today, Henry has endeared himself to a new generation with roles in Arrested Development, Parks and Recreation and Barry, where he's revealed himself as an actor with immense depth and pathos, a departure from the period in his life when he was so distinctly typecast as 'The Fonz' he could hardly find work. Filled with profound heart, charm and self-deprecating humour, this memoir is about so much more than a life in Hollywood and the curse of stardom. It is a meaningful testament to the power of sharing truth and kindness, and of finding fulfilment within yourself.
My Thoughts /
As I finally finish reading the last sentence of this book and close the cover, here are just a few of my first memories:
😎 You are now 78 years young.
😎 You're dyslexic.
😎 You have a beautiful wife (Stacey), children and grandchildren, and live a humble life.
😎 Your love for gardening began with Spider Plants.
😎 I now know that your acting career is so much more diverse than I had ever imagined.
😎 You co-wrote a 28 book series called "Hank Zipzer: The World's Greatest Underachiever" - about the adventures of a young boy with dyslexia who overcomes many learning challenges - and is largely based on your own experiences with your undiagnosed dyslexia.
😎 There is so much more to you than The Fonz.
😎 Your memoir reads like you are having a coffee catchup with a long-lost friend.
In Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond, Henry Winkler reflects back on both his personal and professional life in an open and honest tell-all memoir.
From the beginning, Winkler does a deep dive into his childhood, as the second son of German Jewish immigrant parents. He doesn't shy away from the fact that he had a troubled relationship with his Holocaust surviving parents - his father falsified documents for short-term travel to America, just prior to the closure of international travel to German citizens, telling no one that the move was permanent.
He struggled with his academic education and found comfort and a level of security in the theatrical arts. He had a passion for performing and entertaining. And although at the time, his undiagnosed dyslexia made learning lines frustratingly difficult, he persisted and was a master of improv. His parents however, while having a love of theatre and music, did not think of it as a suitable career choice for their son.
He details his struggle to find work, both before and after his role as Arthur Fonzarelli in Happy Days. His acting roles have endeared him to multiple generations, and yet he writes: “At the height of my fame and success, I felt embarrassed, inadequate”.
He recalls with candour about seeing a therapist to work through his self-doubts and vulnerabilities.
Some chapters are interspersed with snippets written by his wife of 40+ years, Stacey, and these I absolutely adored. Stacey is brutally honest about her husband's immaturity, his parenting, and his crippling fear of poverty (is this a hand-me-down from his own parents?). But above all else, she paints the portrait of a man, simply trying to become a better man - and that deserves a big thumbs up!
I'm so grateful that you've taken the time to write this book, and feel so blessed to have finally read it.
December 16, 2023
"The Fonz was supposed to be a knockabout guy, a man of few words, rough around the edges. Confident. A guy who could make things happen with a snap of his fingers . . . If this wasn't the diametric opposite of who I was in the fall of 1973, it was pretty close . . . I was [.] confident about next to nothing in my life. The one exception was when I was acting. When I was on stage, playing someone else, I was transported to another world, one where pretending made you successful." -- on page 2
I routinely read a lot of non-fiction, but I'll chalk up the Being Henry as THE 'dark horse' candidate for 2023. Actor/producer Henry Winkler - who firmly cemented in place in American pop culture with a healthy eleven-season (1974-1984) run as Arthur 'The Fonz' Fonzarelli on the 50's-set sitcom Happy Days - recounts his fifty years (!) in U.S. show business AND his family foibles with this winning memoir. (I only watched a few primetime shows as a young child circa '78 to '82 - back in the days when the Big 3 networks ruled the roost with their programming - so Happy Days and CHiPs were my 'go-to' series. Maybe it was the motorcycles?) Winkler expands beyond just that star-making role to discuss his unusual childhood, his difficulties with schooling due to undiagnosed dyslexia, and his blended family life experiences. Perhaps most notable is Winkler giving his wife Stacey page time to contribute her thoughts and recollections - which struck me as similar to the narration trade-off of Henry and Karen Hill in the film Goodfellas - and that angle added to the charm of this book. (I also enjoyed his repeat mentions that talented former co-stars Ron Howard and the late Join Ritter were, above all, good and decent guys in real life.). I suppose I would've liked even a little more in the way of stories or anecdotes about the TV show that established his fame, but that's a relatively minor quibble. So the man who essayed the role as 'The Fonz' wrote a page-turner? Correctamundo!
I routinely read a lot of non-fiction, but I'll chalk up the Being Henry as THE 'dark horse' candidate for 2023. Actor/producer Henry Winkler - who firmly cemented in place in American pop culture with a healthy eleven-season (1974-1984) run as Arthur 'The Fonz' Fonzarelli on the 50's-set sitcom Happy Days - recounts his fifty years (!) in U.S. show business AND his family foibles with this winning memoir. (I only watched a few primetime shows as a young child circa '78 to '82 - back in the days when the Big 3 networks ruled the roost with their programming - so Happy Days and CHiPs were my 'go-to' series. Maybe it was the motorcycles?) Winkler expands beyond just that star-making role to discuss his unusual childhood, his difficulties with schooling due to undiagnosed dyslexia, and his blended family life experiences. Perhaps most notable is Winkler giving his wife Stacey page time to contribute her thoughts and recollections - which struck me as similar to the narration trade-off of Henry and Karen Hill in the film Goodfellas - and that angle added to the charm of this book. (I also enjoyed his repeat mentions that talented former co-stars Ron Howard and the late Join Ritter were, above all, good and decent guys in real life.). I suppose I would've liked even a little more in the way of stories or anecdotes about the TV show that established his fame, but that's a relatively minor quibble. So the man who essayed the role as 'The Fonz' wrote a page-turner? Correctamundo!
June 26, 2024
I didn’t know who Henry Winkler was when I picked up this book. I even searched “the Fonz” on YouTube to try to get a reference for his most recognized role. So, take this review with a pinch of salt. I had no interest in learning this man’s life story and only read the book because I was making a video reviewing all of the winners of the 2023 Goodreads Choice Awards (which you can watch here if you like: https://youtu.be/H8A5Ymec0jY). I’m not even a huge memoir fan, in general, especially when celebrities are the ones writing them.
But honestly, Henry pleasantly surprised me! This was a conversational yet well-structured memoir that felt appropriately paced and showed quite a bit of growth and self-reflection. There are a few questionable moments (the misuse of the word schizophrenia being the most glaring), but overall, it felt harmless and was occasionally quite sweet.
As someone with a degree in theatre, myself, I found the detailing of his schooling and experiences with famous acting teachers/coaches fascinating. I could relate to some of his early experiences as a young actor trying to figure out how to navigate a complex industry. I also found his almost five-decade-long marriage and how proud he was of his kids really endearing.
Overall this was engaging even for someone who had no prior interest in this particular man, so I imagine fans of him or his work will enjoy it quite a bit! A totally serviceable memoir that won’t be particularly memorable for me, but didn’t feel like a waste of time, either.
Trigger/Content Warnings: antisemitism, discussion of the holocaust, child abuse, corporal punishment
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But honestly, Henry pleasantly surprised me! This was a conversational yet well-structured memoir that felt appropriately paced and showed quite a bit of growth and self-reflection. There are a few questionable moments (the misuse of the word schizophrenia being the most glaring), but overall, it felt harmless and was occasionally quite sweet.
As someone with a degree in theatre, myself, I found the detailing of his schooling and experiences with famous acting teachers/coaches fascinating. I could relate to some of his early experiences as a young actor trying to figure out how to navigate a complex industry. I also found his almost five-decade-long marriage and how proud he was of his kids really endearing.
Overall this was engaging even for someone who had no prior interest in this particular man, so I imagine fans of him or his work will enjoy it quite a bit! A totally serviceable memoir that won’t be particularly memorable for me, but didn’t feel like a waste of time, either.
Trigger/Content Warnings: antisemitism, discussion of the holocaust, child abuse, corporal punishment
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
August 26, 2023
It’s like that time you were sitting at the local, enjoying a beer and a guy sits down next to you and strikes up a conversation and you think, “this guy’s kind of interesting,” but three hours later he’s still talking and you are surreptitiously checking your watch and trying to figure out how to extricate yourself from the situation without hurting his feelings because he really does seem like a nice guy but Oh.My.God. he just won’t stop talking . . .
December 27, 2023
I absolutely loved Henry Winkler’s autobiography! It read like a conversation and reminded me that nothing is as it seems. We are all great mask-wearers.
In discussing his anxiety issues that he kept well hidden he claims that his “real self was like a kernel of corn sheathed in yards of concrete - as insulated as the nuclear material at Chernobyl.” Who would have known he had such insecurities and that his acting allowed him to become someone different?!
I enjoyed reading about his first audition for Happy Days and was shocked to discover that he was 28 years old and at the end of his trial period in L.A. when he landed the role. I was saddened to read about his disappointment at people only seeing him as the Fonz and not as Henry Winkler. I guess after 11 seasons, we’ve all fallen into the same trap … to us, he IS the Fonz.
I had no idea that Ron Howard was such an influential part of his personal and professional life.
I loved that he used his struggle with dyslexia to create the Hank Zipzer books and reached out to those who need inspiration.
One of the best parts was reading the interjections from his wife of 45 years, Stacey, because it gave the book authenticity and another lens through which to view ‘Henry’.
Winkler covers his troubled relationship with his parents, his dyslexia and his trouble finding work after playing Fonzarelli in Happy Days. It was a great read.
In discussing his anxiety issues that he kept well hidden he claims that his “real self was like a kernel of corn sheathed in yards of concrete - as insulated as the nuclear material at Chernobyl.” Who would have known he had such insecurities and that his acting allowed him to become someone different?!
I enjoyed reading about his first audition for Happy Days and was shocked to discover that he was 28 years old and at the end of his trial period in L.A. when he landed the role. I was saddened to read about his disappointment at people only seeing him as the Fonz and not as Henry Winkler. I guess after 11 seasons, we’ve all fallen into the same trap … to us, he IS the Fonz.
I had no idea that Ron Howard was such an influential part of his personal and professional life.
I loved that he used his struggle with dyslexia to create the Hank Zipzer books and reached out to those who need inspiration.
One of the best parts was reading the interjections from his wife of 45 years, Stacey, because it gave the book authenticity and another lens through which to view ‘Henry’.
Winkler covers his troubled relationship with his parents, his dyslexia and his trouble finding work after playing Fonzarelli in Happy Days. It was a great read.
March 4, 2024
You may know him as the Fonz or Gene Cousineau (or any characters he has played in between), but you probably don’t really know Henry Winkler. Being Henry is a fabulous memoir based on the life of Henry Winkler, and his many adventures in life and acting. I learned so much in this book about somebody who I thought I actually knew. Henry has been an actor longer than I’ve been alive, and I grew up watching him on television. Even though we feel like we know actors from TV, we really don’t know who they are as a person until they tell us. And boy does Henry tell us in this book. So many surprising interactions with other actors (I did not know how close Henry and John Ritter were) that I adore, stories of Henry’s life, that I never could’ve imagined took place, and just an overall ‘leaves you feeling good at the end’ book. How can you go wrong ready a book about the Fonz?? “Heyyyyy 👍🏼”
January 25, 2025
Upgrading to five. This book is everything it was hyped to be. Loved reading it.
Like many, The Fonz was a part of my childhood and part of feeling American. I think I only realized that while reading the book.
He is funny and gracious, and he does something celebrity writers rarely do - he names names of the misbehaving!!!! That cracked me up. Now, they are all dead, but nonetheless, I thought it brave and hysterical in his brazenness.
Also loved that his wife contributed her point of view.
Like many, The Fonz was a part of my childhood and part of feeling American. I think I only realized that while reading the book.
He is funny and gracious, and he does something celebrity writers rarely do - he names names of the misbehaving!!!! That cracked me up. Now, they are all dead, but nonetheless, I thought it brave and hysterical in his brazenness.
Also loved that his wife contributed her point of view.
January 27, 2024
Thanks Henry for making me smile and laugh, and for lifting my spirits ❤️. I hope I get to meet you one day:).
I was more into I Dream of Jeannie and I Love Lucy than Happy Days growing up (it was more my mom and dad's thing). The first time I remember seeing Henry (going by what little memories I have) was on So Weird 's Halloween episode.
I didn't know much about him before this book but kinda feel like I did in a way, if that makes sense.
It was a great experience reading this. I didn't know of his home life growing up and I wanted to hug him so bad hearing what he dealt with:(.
I admire him for not giving up and pressing on to get to where he is now (and I definitely want to check out Barry).
The way he described himself, made me wonder if he suffers from anxiety disorders like I do... so stuff sounded similar but it's just guessing for me *shrugs * so 🤷
He is just a genuine spirit and a kind man.. a few things he said I rewound to listen to again so I could absorb it better.
With one thing he says near the end, I know he wouldn't tolerate certain members of my family and those who enable said behaviors. Had me chuckling a bit.
Would recommend, worthwhile listen 🎶 👌.
I was more into I Dream of Jeannie and I Love Lucy than Happy Days growing up (it was more my mom and dad's thing). The first time I remember seeing Henry (going by what little memories I have) was on So Weird 's Halloween episode.
I didn't know much about him before this book but kinda feel like I did in a way, if that makes sense.
It was a great experience reading this. I didn't know of his home life growing up and I wanted to hug him so bad hearing what he dealt with:(.
I admire him for not giving up and pressing on to get to where he is now (and I definitely want to check out Barry).
The way he described himself, made me wonder if he suffers from anxiety disorders like I do... so stuff sounded similar but it's just guessing for me *shrugs * so 🤷
He is just a genuine spirit and a kind man.. a few things he said I rewound to listen to again so I could absorb it better.
With one thing he says near the end, I know he wouldn't tolerate certain members of my family and those who enable said behaviors. Had me chuckling a bit.
Would recommend, worthwhile listen 🎶 👌.
January 31, 2024
Wow! I’ve so much to say. I wrote 3 diary pages of quotes. If you love the Fonz you’ll love him more after this book. Will definitely get back to ya.
January 25, 2026
As I continue my audiobook journey this year, I’ve been very selective in terms of choosing which memoirs (especially celebrity memoirs) to read, as there are way too many of them out there and quite a few of them don’t interest me in the slightest. I’ve had Henry Winkler’s memoir on my TBR for quite some time though, as it was recommended to me by a few book friends who suggested listening to the audio version narrated by Henry himself. It makes sense then, that when I rekindled my relationship with audiobooks at the end of last year, this book was one of several on my audio shortlist that I wanted to make sure I prioritized. And yes, this memoir turned out to be every bit as delightful and funny as expected! I can definitely see why Henry’s memoir won the Goodreads Choice Best Humor award back in 2023 when the book first came out, as I found myself chuckling at certain moments, but best of all was hearing Henry himself laughing during those same moments.
Prior to reading his memoir, I had no idea how charming and funny Henry could be, as I was born in the late 1970s so Happy Days was kind of before my time -- though I was familiar with the show, as I watched it through reruns in syndication in the late 80s/early 90s, I of course wasn’t around when the show was at its peak in the mid-70s, so I never really “followed” Henry’s career as I did other sitcom stars. Like many others, I only knew Henry as “The Fonz” so reading his memoir and learning about his life and career beyond that one iconic role has been an especially insightful experience. It was interesting to hear about Henry’s long-time concern about being typecasted and the impact that had on him being able to find acting work, which led to him exploring other career paths such as producing, directing, and even becoming a children’s book author (now I want to check out his Hank Zipser books, as they sound so delightful). With Henry’s memoir, the most nostalgic moment for me was hearing him talk about his experience producing one of my favorite TV shows, MacGyver (the Richard Dean Anderson version from the 1980s/1990s), which, though I knew back then that he was an executive producer on the show, I completely forgot about it until he mentioned it (as much as I miss that show, I have no interest in watching the recent reboot of the series).
In terms of Henry’s personal life, I was surprised to hear how poorly he was treated by his parents and sibling and the lifelong strained relationship he had with them as a result (when his parents died, he didn’t even want to go to their funerals at first, which says a lot about how toxic the relationship was). As heartbreaking as it was to read about this struggle (which, I will be honest, those of us who have strained relationships with our own parents can probably relate to), I was glad to hear that, in the end, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it made him vow to not only be a different kind of parent to his own children, but also as a person, actively strive to be the opposite of what his parents were (now I understand why he is regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood and is so beloved and respected in the industry). My favorite part of Henry’s memoir is when he talks about his relationship with his wife Stacey, to whom he has been married 47 years (at the time that this memoir was written) – given how the entertainment industry works, not only is it rare to see such a long and loving marriage, it’s also wonderful to see how much Henry adores and respects his wife. It was such a treat to get to hear Stacey narrate parts of the audiobook alongside Henry and give her own perspective on things – I actually ended up adoring Stacey as well and can definitely see why she is such a perfect match for Henry.
I really enjoyed this memoir and appreciated learning so much about Henry Winkler – specifically about his personal struggles and, more significantly, how different he is from the personas he portrays on screen. If I wasn’t a fan of his before, I certainly am one now!
Prior to reading his memoir, I had no idea how charming and funny Henry could be, as I was born in the late 1970s so Happy Days was kind of before my time -- though I was familiar with the show, as I watched it through reruns in syndication in the late 80s/early 90s, I of course wasn’t around when the show was at its peak in the mid-70s, so I never really “followed” Henry’s career as I did other sitcom stars. Like many others, I only knew Henry as “The Fonz” so reading his memoir and learning about his life and career beyond that one iconic role has been an especially insightful experience. It was interesting to hear about Henry’s long-time concern about being typecasted and the impact that had on him being able to find acting work, which led to him exploring other career paths such as producing, directing, and even becoming a children’s book author (now I want to check out his Hank Zipser books, as they sound so delightful). With Henry’s memoir, the most nostalgic moment for me was hearing him talk about his experience producing one of my favorite TV shows, MacGyver (the Richard Dean Anderson version from the 1980s/1990s), which, though I knew back then that he was an executive producer on the show, I completely forgot about it until he mentioned it (as much as I miss that show, I have no interest in watching the recent reboot of the series).
In terms of Henry’s personal life, I was surprised to hear how poorly he was treated by his parents and sibling and the lifelong strained relationship he had with them as a result (when his parents died, he didn’t even want to go to their funerals at first, which says a lot about how toxic the relationship was). As heartbreaking as it was to read about this struggle (which, I will be honest, those of us who have strained relationships with our own parents can probably relate to), I was glad to hear that, in the end, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it made him vow to not only be a different kind of parent to his own children, but also as a person, actively strive to be the opposite of what his parents were (now I understand why he is regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood and is so beloved and respected in the industry). My favorite part of Henry’s memoir is when he talks about his relationship with his wife Stacey, to whom he has been married 47 years (at the time that this memoir was written) – given how the entertainment industry works, not only is it rare to see such a long and loving marriage, it’s also wonderful to see how much Henry adores and respects his wife. It was such a treat to get to hear Stacey narrate parts of the audiobook alongside Henry and give her own perspective on things – I actually ended up adoring Stacey as well and can definitely see why she is such a perfect match for Henry.
I really enjoyed this memoir and appreciated learning so much about Henry Winkler – specifically about his personal struggles and, more significantly, how different he is from the personas he portrays on screen. If I wasn’t a fan of his before, I certainly am one now!
November 4, 2023
When I am going to pick up nonfiction my top choice is always memoirs because there is nothing better than getting to see a piece of someone’s life from their own words and their own perspective. I will admit I did not know a lot about Henry Winkler. I had of course seen the Fonz and recognized him several times over the years in other projects saying “look it’s the Fonz”, but I honestly didn’t know much about his life. I think I was most impressed and pleased to learn that he was dyslexic and wrote a series of children’s books about a dyslexic kid to help other children like him. It is beautiful that he helped so many kids to never feel like he had felt. It made me a little sad how much time was between some of the offers for acting jobs that Henry had. Everything I have seen he has done a great job and I hope that he continues to just keep working because the world is better with his contributions in it.
April 11, 2024
Road trip audiobook!
The portrayer of the coolest man to ever live takes us on a tour through his life as an actor provides an in-depth examination of all his anxieties and neuroses and his struggle with dyslexia.
I would have liked a little more time spent on the shows Winkler has worked on over the years, but he still makes for a chatty and amusing traveling companion. This book pairs well with Ron Howard's recent memoir, The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family, offering an interesting contrast with the narrators' very different personalities and the similar but diverging paths they followed after being part of a pop-culture phenomenon.
The portrayer of the coolest man to ever live takes us on a tour through his life as an actor provides an in-depth examination of all his anxieties and neuroses and his struggle with dyslexia.
I would have liked a little more time spent on the shows Winkler has worked on over the years, but he still makes for a chatty and amusing traveling companion. This book pairs well with Ron Howard's recent memoir, The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family, offering an interesting contrast with the narrators' very different personalities and the similar but diverging paths they followed after being part of a pop-culture phenomenon.
January 30, 2024
An audiobook memoir narrated by the very pleasant and soft-spoken actor who played the iconic role of the Fonz. It contained interesting anecdotes and stories of his personal life, ascent to stardom as the Fonz, and what came after. And there was a lot for him that came after, even though he expresses frustration at what he relates as down times in acting. But sounded like to me he rarely stopped being involved in the entertainment industry. It was interesting to hear the behind the scenes machinations of TV and movies, the relationships forged and strengthened over time. Interwoven into this is stuff about his family. Some good, some not great. I learned some stuff and that's always kinda cool.
December 4, 2023
One of the best auto-bio/ memoirs I’ve ever read. Funny and self deprecating, open about his fear and anxiety, and warm as hell. There are a few portions where Stacy Winkler narrated and she was charming too.
Highly recommended!
Highly recommended!
February 21, 2024
reading vlog: https://youtu.be/fod4rfv-qz4
lots of interesting insights into the acting industry but sorry to this man.... i have not seen anything you're in and thus wasn't super captivating
lots of interesting insights into the acting industry but sorry to this man.... i have not seen anything you're in and thus wasn't super captivating
December 7, 2023
I was really excited about reading this, but it sort of fell flat for me. It was like it was too nice of a memoir. I get not everyone wants to dish dirt and throw out names or tell certain stories because they are too scandalous, but it just seemed like every single thing he did and every person he worked with was just wonderful, every project was wonderful that by the end I was like “Ok I get it, you like everyone and loved everything you did” Maybe this is just his personality and genuinely feels this way but it got repetitive hearing the same ideology on every story.
He also kinda breezed through the McGyver days, which was one of my favourite shows as a kid, so I was disappointed this wasn’t touched upon more. I always thought it was fascinating going from the Fonz to producing that show and always wondered how that transition happened.
The struggles about anxiety and dyslexia I really did enjoy because it felt genuine and you can tell it was hard for him his whole life and he really opened up about this.
Overall I’d say like a 3-3.5 stars for me
He also kinda breezed through the McGyver days, which was one of my favourite shows as a kid, so I was disappointed this wasn’t touched upon more. I always thought it was fascinating going from the Fonz to producing that show and always wondered how that transition happened.
The struggles about anxiety and dyslexia I really did enjoy because it felt genuine and you can tell it was hard for him his whole life and he really opened up about this.
Overall I’d say like a 3-3.5 stars for me
December 2, 2023
What an incredible audiobook narrated by Henry Winkler…The Fonz loved you then and still love you now!
January 22, 2024
Too boiler plate for my tastes and found it underwhelming. Different strokes for different folks
September 9, 2024
5 Stars for Being Henry: The Fonz and Beyond (audiobook) by Henry Winkler and James Kaplan read by Henry Winkler.
Happy Days was really a special show and I still remember it fondly. It was great getting to see Ron Howard star in his own show but really Fonzie was the stand out in the show. What an amazing character to grow up watching, he had all of the charisma and confidence. Who would have ever guessed that this was such a stretch for the actor. Somehow this insecure actor channeled this amazing character and a star was born.
It was great getting caught up on everything that Henry Winkler has been doing since Happy Days. I remember over the years seeing him promoting a show every once in a while but I hadn’t really followed his career. I’m happy to hear that he’s had such an amazing career and marriage.
Happy Days was really a special show and I still remember it fondly. It was great getting to see Ron Howard star in his own show but really Fonzie was the stand out in the show. What an amazing character to grow up watching, he had all of the charisma and confidence. Who would have ever guessed that this was such a stretch for the actor. Somehow this insecure actor channeled this amazing character and a star was born.
It was great getting caught up on everything that Henry Winkler has been doing since Happy Days. I remember over the years seeing him promoting a show every once in a while but I hadn’t really followed his career. I’m happy to hear that he’s had such an amazing career and marriage.
February 8, 2024
I do not read many memoirs, particularly of famous people, unless I happen to like the person. I always liked Henry Winkler so I read this book. Actually I listened to the audible version since it is read by the author (with small parts by his wife). It was very, very personal and clearly came from Winkler's heart. So, if you are a fan you will love it. If not, it has a lot of important things to say and lessons to learn. A terrific book. Highly recommended.
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