Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars | 3,302 ratings

Price: 17.71

Last update: 10-07-2024


About this item

This program is read by the author.

"Kindhearted and approachable Winkler shines in his narration of his memoir commemorating 50 years of showbiz work...An engaging and endearing memoir by a genuine Hollywood treasure whose work spans generations."—Library Journal

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 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 been revealed 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.

A Macmillan Audio production from Celadon Books.


Top reviews from the United States

Judy T
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful
Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2024
This book is very well written and tells so much more than anyone would ever think they could ever know about Henry and his life. There was not one page that I was not completely engrossed in the details, whether it be how he auditioned for the role of Fonzie, how he was dyslexic and didn’t realize it until later in life, how he had a hard time finding work as he got older, all the unique people he met and became friends with, his wonderful wife and children, and especially all the lessons and wisdom he has learned in his life, all of it combined to shape him into the person he has become. It is a beautiful story, very honest, and I highly recommended it to any fan or Henry Winkler, whether you only knew him as Fonzie or not, there is a lot more to this man than just playing the Fonz!
Global Family 134
5.0 out of 5 stars Very Enjoyable Read
Reviewed in the United States on September 21, 2024
Absolutely real ! Henry Winkler has the same concerns and insecurities as all of us, but finds so much joy, compassion and understanding along the way. Thank you!
pilates lover
4.0 out of 5 stars Very nice book about his life
Reviewed in the United States on September 10, 2024
I had read Ron Howard's book so some things about Happy Days were "repeats" but I loved hearing it through Henry's eyes and perspective. He had a sad but interesting childhood and his honesty was appreciated. It forms part of what you deal with later. I ached that he and so many were thought of as "dumb" and his resilience in fighting that to get what he wanted, his dream of acting. That was also very honest and he told of his high points and low points and what he did right and wrong.
I felt I knew him a little bit better when done and hope to see more of him in the future. I also still chuckle over his Paul McCartney and Mick Jagger comments. ; )
Bill Knier
5.0 out of 5 stars wonderful book
Reviewed in the United States on September 18, 2024
This book brings to life that Mr. Winkler is sound a kind, loving person who has been able to keep his feet firmly on solid ground. I’ve always enjoyed watching him both on TV and in many of his movies. I know have a greater appreciation and respect as in many of his rolls and a kind gentle person, it was not just acting, but who he is.
Thank You
Great Santini
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read
Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2024
I saw Henry Winkler talk about this book on a NBC morning news interview and he is such an interesting man, I thought I'd buy this book. I really enjoyed this book. It refreshing to read about someone whom I respected and enjoyed as an actor have some of the same issues I've gone through made an interesting and enjoyable read. Thank you Henry
Jennifer M
5.0 out of 5 stars Knew I'd like it, didn't know how much I'd love it.
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2024
This was so much better than I expected . . . and I expected it to be great. In his written words, you can just see and hear him saying them. Also, it was very relatable. I am proud to share a birthday with this kind, humble, grateful and unselfish man.
Nanny Lisa
4.0 out of 5 stars The Man Behind the Fonz
Reviewed in the United States on July 7, 2024
Who would have thought that someone as cool as the Fonz struggled with dyslexia and self doubt? Well, we are all human. Even our favorite stars are human. Regular people forget that sometimes. Henry Winkler does a beautiful job telling his life story. He has a passion for acting. It's nice to know he still enjoys that passion and enjoys working and creating. What I really enjoyed learning from reading this book is that Henry finally realized that watching the Fonz brought so many people so much joy that seeing him now brings back those happy memories. That is a gift. Henry Winkler is a man of many stories and puts them together beautifully in this book.
Laura Alexander
5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely incredible!
Reviewed in the United States on September 23, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this amazing actor. If you love him, too- you'll love the book.
He is so worthy. ????

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