Being Henry

The Fonz . . . and Beyond

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.

©2023 Henry Winkler (P)2023 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

"This charming autobiography of personal struggles during times of career success and challenge deserves a big thumbs-up."—Kirkus

"[A] winning memoir...Though Winkler includes plenty of inside-Hollywood fare, the book’s frankness sets it apart from standard-issue actor memoirs. The result is a heartfelt chronicle of learning to love one’s self, shortcomings and all."—Publishers Marketplace

"Sharing memorable and funny behind-the-scenes moments, Being Henry entertains as an introspective, self-deprecating, and quite moving memoir from a versatile actor....The many, many fans Winkler has gathered over his 50 years in Hollywood won't be disappointed by this charming memoir."—Booklist

Sweet human

Humility, sweetness, & definitely an American Icon. 👏
Great listening to him narrate.
Such an incredible human

Even Fonz would want to be as cool as Henry

What an uplifting and enlightening book. It proves nice guys can finish first. Henry is a down-to-earth Hollywood star who lives and cares about others. To his family, thank you for sharing him with us.

Easy fun to listen to

Loved his honesty humor and I learned a lot about him that makes him a down to earth real person! Being Jewish myself I laughed at his stories and brought me back to times of my own life.

Joyful and fun

I found this audiobook full of joy. Henry Winkler speaks as if there is a perpetual smile on his face and in his heart, even as he tells of past struggles. I thoroughly enjoyed this and didn’t want it to end.

Close call.

Henry’s neuroses almost turned me off, but then the honesty, warmth,passion, grace, and love in his heart won me over. He’s an imperfect specimen, yet totally relatable and enjoyable. Thank you, Henry.

Outstanding

Enjoyed listening to Henry’s story so very much. Put it on your Christmas gift to yourself or a friend, you or they will love it.

Interesting

I liked wife’s interaction on the audiobook. I’m impressed that with his dyslexia he read his manuscript so eloquently.
Lots of memoirs coming out lately, I had to decide which one to buy with my credit. Glad I chose this one 🤎 ✡️

An ‘Aaaaay’ Plus

As a huge Happy Days fan and Henry Winkler fan in general this was a must listen for me.
Henry does a great job explaining pivotal moments in both his life and career. He talks about his insecurities and his disabilities. He talks about his friendship with Ron Howard. Overall this book just showed how great of guy Mr. Winkler is. 10/10 highly recommend.

Nostalgic and a great story

Loved the inside information on Happy Days and to learn more about his life. It's affirmimg to know that people we think have it all also struggle with their self-worth, ehhhh.

Excellent book and reading

As a retired special education teacher the way Henry was made to feel by his teachers and parents as a kid with dyslexia absolutely rang true and broke my heart. So many children with dyslexia believe they are stupid and just can’t learn. Thank you for bringing the fight out into the light, Mr. Winkler.