Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond

Written by Henry Winkler

Narrated by Henry Winkler

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.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Macmillan Audio
• Release date: Oct 31, 2023
• ISBN: 9781250889829

Henry Winkler

Henry Winkler is an American actor, comedian, author, executive producer and director. He rose to fame playing Arthur Fonzarelli on the long-running hit television series Happy Days, and won over a new generation with roles like Barry Zuckerkorn in Arrested Development, Uncle Joe in The French Dispatch, Dr Saperstein in Parks and Recreation and Gene Cousineau in Barry. He has won a Primetime Emmy, two Daytime Emmys, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Critics Choice Award. In 2011, he was awarded an OBE for his work around dyslexia. Being Henry is his first autobiography.

Reviews for Being Henry

[Maurcio Segura · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Funny, heartbreaking, inspirational. Henry, Hank, is so much more than the guy who played the Fonz. Be prepared to just wish he was your friend by the time you finish this extraordinary autobiography!

[DJ Schafer · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

As the mother of a young man who wasn’t diagnosed with Dyslexia until August of his Senior year in high school, I cannot thank Henry Winkler enough for sharing his own struggles and victories with his different abilities.

What a life full of adventure Mr. Winkler has lived. From the people he met, the places he visited and the career he continues to have.

I especially liked hearing his wife Stacey read portions of this book. Congratulations Stacey on beating breast cancer!

We were surprised to learn Mr. Winkler's parents had escaped from Nazi Germany. And his difficult relationship with his parents broke my heart for them and him.

"Never finish a negative sentence".
Thank you Henry Winkler for this sage advice.

PS: I can't wait to read your children's books to and with our Grandchildren.

[Paul Constantine Gore · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Very easy going personality . Pozitive and fun listening experiente.

[Laura Akscin Foord · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

He's great! Simply great!
Felt like a friend, hearing his voice tell his story.

[Erin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Did not disappoint! He is so delightful through and through!

[Lisa Newman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Humorous, honest, delightfully read, and much more than just a history of Henry Winkler’s entertainment journey. It’s a narrative of his personal struggles and growth. Loved it!

[graydors0 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed the entire book and so well narrated by the author his career certainly had its ups and downs and his wife Stacey must have been a wonderful person. My kids certainly enjoyed watching the Fonz.

[Tammy · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love how he explains his dyslexia. How he so open, real and raw with his feelings. His love for his forward family and coming to terms with his past family. How he tries to make everyone feel special. Awesome job.

[Moe Gans-Pomerantz · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Awesome and honest. Henry’s description of his internal doubts and struggles as he progressed in his personal and professional life, may feel familiar to a lot of listeners. We can learn from him on how to turn things around to truly appreciate and enjoy life.

[Steven Stankevitz · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It was a great listen. Couldn’t put it down thanks Steven

[James Simone · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The fact that Henry Winkler did the audio himself made this even more enjoyable! Just loved learning about his life and career. How insecure and humble a man he was and still is. What a great dude this man is. Was always a fan and even more now.

[Christine · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

What a treat Being Henry on audiobook was. I'm so glad I opted for that mode, especially because his wife chimes in several times. What an interesting and special choice.

I loved the pacing of this book - he doesn't linger. He doesn't get bogged down. That makes this a pretty quick read.

Winkler comes across as generally humble, self-deprecating, and diplomatic. He seems like a really nice guy - it was so easy to root for his success, in his career and otherwise. Definitely one I'd recommend if you're a fan.

[Randy Lichtman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Excellent story with many lessons. I was able to see him at Miami Book Fair and it was so interesting to hear the entire book after his presentation there. He is an amazing person, and it was especially wonderful, hearing him narrate his story.

[fegordon · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It’s a surprising look into the man who played the Fonz. Full of wonderful stories, terrific humor, and a lot of warmth. Highly recommended reading.

[Maggie Krawczyk · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Henry Winkler is amazing. Great book, it was a pleasure reading!

[Karen · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A truly great read. Henry is definitely Nature over Nurture. His difficult childhood left its scars, but his big heart won out. From behind the scenes stories of Hollywood to gentle tales of all the family pets, I enjoyed every word. And huge gratitude to Henry for narrating the audiobook himself-an incredible feat for a dyslexic person.

[RobynGermaine · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Loving me some Henry Winkler! What a beautiful man! Thank you for your honesty and for doing the work inside to get to where you are!