Henry Winkler is a beloved figure in American entertainment, best known for his iconic role as “The Fonz” in Happy Days, as well as a long, versatile career in acting, directing, producing, and writing. With a career spanning over five decades, Winkler has remained active in Hollywood and has earned critical acclaim well beyond his early fame. As public curiosity grows around classic television stars and their current lives, many fans wonder: Is Henry Winkler still alive? This article provides a factual and respectful update on his life, health, recent achievements, and enduring cultural impact.
Is Henry Winkler Still Alive?
Yes, Henry Winkler is still alive. As of 2025, he is 79 years old and remains active in the entertainment industry. Born on October 30, 1945, in New York City, Winkler continues to act, produce, and engage with fans through appearances, interviews, and public speaking events.
He has enjoyed a remarkable career resurgence in recent years, particularly through his Emmy-winning role in HBO’s Barry. Winkler is not only alive but thriving—creatively and personally—with no credible reports of serious health issues affecting him.
Current Health and Public Life
Henry Winkler is in good health and maintains an active lifestyle. He frequently appears in interviews, attends film festivals, participates in book tours, and engages with audiences through social media and live events.
Winkler has publicly shared that he deals with dyslexia, a learning disorder that he was only properly diagnosed with in adulthood. Rather than a setback, he has used this personal experience to advocate for children with learning differences and inspire others through motivational speaking and writing.
His mental sharpness, humor, and positive attitude remain intact, and his physical health appears stable as he continues to work in television and other creative projects.
Early Life and Education
Henry Franklin Winkler was born to German-Jewish immigrants who fled Nazi Germany in the late 1930s. Raised in Manhattan, he struggled academically due to undiagnosed dyslexia but remained committed to pursuing a career in performance.
Winkler graduated from Emerson College in 1967 and later earned an MFA from the Yale School of Drama, where he sharpened his acting skills. His early career included stage work and small television appearances, but everything changed in 1974 when he was cast as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli in Happy Days.
The Fonz and the Cultural Phenomenon of Happy Days
Winkler’s breakout role came on the ABC sitcom Happy Days, where he played “The Fonz”—a leather-jacket-wearing, motorcycle-riding greaser with a heart of gold. Originally intended as a secondary character, the Fonzie quickly became the show’s centerpiece thanks to Winkler’s charisma and nuanced performance.
The show ran from 1974 to 1984, and Winkler became a household name. The Fonz symbolized coolness, rebellion, and loyalty, earning Winkler numerous awards and global fame.
His portrayal was so impactful that the Smithsonian Institution added his leather jacket to its permanent collection, honoring the role’s significance in American pop culture.
Beyond Fonzie: Acting, Producing, and Reinvention
Although the Fonzie role made him a star, Winkler worked hard to expand his artistic identity. After Happy Days, he shifted toward directing and producing, co-founding a production company that developed successful television shows and movies.
Notable Producing Credits Include:
- MacGyver (1985–1992) – Executive Producer
- Dead Man’s Gun (1997–1999) – Executive Producer
- Hollywood Squares and several television specials
He also directed Cop and a Half (1993) and continued to guest-star on popular shows such as Arrested Development, The Practice, Parks and Recreation, and Royal Pains.
Despite being typecast early in his career, Winkler demonstrated versatility and resilience by continuously reinventing himself over the decades.
Resurgence in Barry and Critical Acclaim
In 2018, Henry Winkler earned renewed critical recognition for his role as acting teacher Gene Cousineau in the HBO dark comedy Barry, starring Bill Hader. The show received widespread acclaim, and Winkler’s performance was lauded for its humor, emotional depth, and complexity.
In 2018, Winkler won his first Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series—a long-overdue recognition of his talent by the television industry.
His performance in Barry introduced him to a new generation of viewers, cementing his reputation as both a comedic and dramatic actor capable of subtle, layered performances.
Writing and Advocacy Work
Beyond acting and producing, Henry Winkler is also an accomplished author. In collaboration with Lin Oliver, he co-wrote the “Hank Zipzer” children’s book series, inspired by his experiences with dyslexia.
The series includes over 30 books and has sold millions of copies worldwide. It focuses on a boy with learning difficulties navigating school and life, and it has been praised for raising awareness and empowering children with learning challenges.
Winkler also wrote memoirs and self-help books, sharing his journey and insights on overcoming adversity, finding purpose, and embracing creativity.
Personal Life and Family
Henry Winkler has been married to Stacey Weitzman since 1978. The couple has two children and several grandchildren. He often credits his wife for being a grounding influence in his life and career.
Family remains central to Winkler’s life. He frequently mentions his close relationships with his children and grandchildren, and he often includes stories about them in public interviews and speeches.
Winkler also maintains lifelong friendships with colleagues from his early career, including fellow Happy Days cast members. His reputation in the industry is that of a kind, gracious, and generous professional.
Awards and Recognition
Over the decades, Henry Winkler has received numerous accolades honoring both his artistic and humanitarian contributions.
Notable Awards and Honors:
- Primetime Emmy Award – Barry (2018)
- Golden Globe Awards – Multiple wins for Happy Days
- Critics Choice Television Award – Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – Star received in 1981
- Humanitarian Awards – For dyslexia advocacy and literacy promotion
- Honorary Doctorates – From Emerson College and other institutions
Winkler is not only respected as an entertainer but also as an educator and public figure who uses his platform to promote empathy, learning, and perseverance.
Public Engagement and Media Presence
Henry Winkler remains active in the public eye. He frequently appears on talk shows, participates in fan conventions, and speaks at education and literacy conferences.
He maintains an approachable and optimistic demeanor in public appearances. His interviews are filled with humor, humility, and thoughtful reflections on life, learning, and creativity.
Winkler is also active on social media, particularly Twitter, where he shares positive messages, promotes his projects, and interacts warmly with fans. His online presence has helped him remain beloved across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Henry Winkler still alive?
Yes, Henry Winkler is alive and well as of 2025. He is 79 years old and remains active in the entertainment industry.
What is Henry Winkler doing now?
He continues to act, write, and appear in television projects. His recent roles include Barry and upcoming creative endeavors in television and publishing.
How old is Henry Winkler?
He was born on October 30, 1945, and is 79 years old in 2025.
What is Henry Winkler best known for?
He is best known for playing Fonzie in Happy Days and more recently for his Emmy-winning role in HBO’s Barry.
Has Henry Winkler written any books?
Yes, he co-authored the Hank Zipzer series and several other books for children and adults, often inspired by his experiences with dyslexia.
Conclusion
Henry Winkler is still alive, active, and admired in 2025. With a legacy that includes legendary television roles, award-winning performances, children’s books, and advocacy for learning disabilities, he remains a shining example of versatility and resilience.
From “The Fonz” to Gene Cousineau, Winkler has proven time and again that talent, humility, and kindness can coexist—and endure. His journey continues to inspire fans across generations, and his contributions to entertainment and education will leave a lasting mark for decades to come.