A Legacy of Performance: Henry Winkler’s 50-Year Journey in Acting
Henry Winkler, the iconic actor best known for his role as the Fonz on Happy Days, has spent over five decades shaping the world of entertainment. From his early days in the 1970s to his recent work on Barry, Winkler has continually evolved as an artist and mentor. His latest endeavor is a testament to this ongoing journey—teaching the next generation of actors at the Television Academy’s first-ever Televerse festival.
A Meta Moment in Acting Education
At the heart of the festival was a unique event: Winkler leading an acting class in front of a live audience. The setting was Downtown Los Angeles, where he observed several actor pairs perform scenes and offered feedback. His notes were both insightful and challenging, ranging from advice like “stop moving so much” to “don’t hide!” These critiques reflected the same philosophy that made him a standout in his own career.
Winkler’s approach to teaching is deeply rooted in his experience. He has been part of Hollywood for half a century, and during that time, he has learned valuable lessons about the craft. One of the key principles he emphasized was “getting out of your own way.” This concept, which he repeated throughout the class, highlights the importance of being fully present and authentic in performance.
The Philosophy Behind the Performance
Winkler’s mantra of “getting out of your own way” is more than just a technique—it’s a mindset. He explained that it took him years to truly understand and apply this principle. “You’re constantly working on getting out of your own way,” he said. “When you do, it’s like nirvana.”
This philosophy extends beyond acting. Winkler, who is now nearly 80, sees it as a life lesson. He shared how, at 27, he played the Fonz, and at 72, he appeared in Barry. “I knew what I wanted at 27, but it took me until I was 72 to put it together,” he reflected. This realization underscores the idea that personal growth and artistic development are lifelong processes.
The Power of Connection
Another recurring theme in Winkler’s teachings was the importance of connection. He stressed the value of being present and listening, not only to the script but also to the scene partner. This idea was evident in his early days on Happy Days with Ron Howard, who played Richie Cunningham alongside him.
Winkler recalled how he and Howard had an unspoken bond during their time on the show. “There was no talking. We took a 3-page scene, we would memorize it, rehearse it, improvise it and shoot it three times in 20 minutes,” he said. This level of trust and chemistry between actors is something Winkler believes is essential for great performances.
A Mentor and a Friend
Winkler’s influence extends beyond the classroom. He has remained close to many of his peers, including Ron Howard, who recently received his first Emmy acting nomination for his role in The Studio. Winkler expressed his excitement for Howard’s success, calling him “an animated, wisdom-filled fellow.”
In addition to his teaching, Winkler was honored as an inductee into the Television Hall of Fame at the Televerse festival. Alongside other industry icons like Viola Davis and Ryan Murphy, he celebrated the enduring impact of television on culture and storytelling.
Looking Ahead
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, Winkler remains open to new opportunities. When asked about a potential Happy Days reboot or continuation series, he joked, “I would do the Fonz retired, absolutely.” With his signature Fonz voice, he added, “grandchildren… lot of fun, very difficult, but you get to give ‘em back!”
His legacy is not just about the roles he has played, but also about the lessons he has passed on to others. Through his teaching, mentorship, and continued presence in the industry, Winkler ensures that the art of acting remains alive and evolving.
