Henry Winkler, an iconic American actor, comedian, producer, and director, rose to fame with his role as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on the 1970s sitcom “Happy Days.” Despite his professional achievements, Winkler’s childhood was marked by significant challenges, including undiagnosed dyslexia and a lack of support from both teachers and parents.
Overcoming Childhood Struggles
Winkler turned to acting as a refuge, ultimately earning an MFA from Yale School of Drama before landing his iconic role on “Happy Days.” He married Stacey Weitzman, and together they raised two children, in addition to Stacey’s son from a previous marriage. Determined to provide a nurturing environment, Winkler prioritized giving his children a normal upbringing despite his celebrity status.
Reflecting on His Upbringing
Winkler’s parents emigrated from Germany to New York just before World War II. Growing up with undiagnosed learning disabilities, he faced harsh criticism from his parents, who often called him “stupid” and “dumb,” and nicknamed him “Dumm Hund” (dumb dog). Reflecting on this, Winkler stated, “I made a decision when I was 10—and I thought about it every day—that I was going to be a different parent from my parents.”
Winkler’s stepson Jed was diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age, which led to Winkler’s own diagnosis at 31. He recalls, “I went, ‘Oh my goodness. I have something with a name.’ That was when I first understood it.” Later, his other children were also diagnosed with dyslexia. “Fortunately, we found out early, but if you don’t catch it early, a child’s self-image plummets, as mine did.”
Embracing Each Child’s Uniqueness
Winkler emphasizes the individuality of each child, comparing parenting to baking a muffin: “Each child is an individual. Each child is like baking a muffin. You put a toothpick in to see if it’s done. Each child does it their own way.” Despite his fame, Winkler ensured his children led a normal life, setting clear rules and boundaries, including a ban on show business. He stressed the importance of communication and listening.
Inspiring Young Minds Through Literature
Winkler co-authored two children’s book series with Lin Oliver: “Ghost Buddy” and “Hank Zipzer: The Mostly True Confessions of the World’s Best Underachiever.” These books are designed to be accessible, featuring short chapters to help children feel a sense of accomplishment as they read.
While Winkler doesn’t claim to be an authority on parenting, he is passionate about every child’s potential. “I want every child to know that they have greatness inside them. Just because school is difficult doesn’t mean they aren’t brilliant.” He views these books as one of his greatest achievements, alongside his children and grandchildren.
Overcoming Dyslexia in Acting
Dyslexia presents challenges for actors, but Winkler has learned to overcome this obstacle. He shares this message with the children he inspires: “A learning challenge doesn’t have to stop you. Every child who writes to me about Hank Zipzer, I write back. In every letter, I include, ‘Your learning challenge will not stop you from meeting your dream. Only you will stop yourself from meeting your dream.’”
In 2011, Queen Elizabeth recognized Winkler’s contributions to children with learning disabilities and special educational needs, awarding him an Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
Henry Winkler’s journey from a challenging childhood to a successful career and dedicated fatherhood serves as an inspiration. His commitment to breaking the cycle of emotional destruction and nurturing his children’s unique potentials highlights the power of positive parenting.
