Henry Winkler Reflects on Experiences with Former Screen Partners

Henry Winkler recently shared his thoughts on a former screen partner who didn’t leave a favorable impression on him. Speaking at a fan expo in Tennessee, the 80-year-old actor discussed the camaraderie on the set of “Happy Days,” emphasizing the collective spirit of the cast.

“On our set, there was no stardom,” Winkler explained. “We were an ensemble. We worked hard at making it funny every week.”

He recalled how one guest star, who appeared multiple times, did not align with this group mindset. According to Winkler, this actor frequently mentioned his fan mail, prompting Winkler to assert, “You don’t want to talk to me about fan mail, I got 50,000 letters a week.” He reminded the actor that such discussions were discouraged on set, emphasizing the unity among the cast.

Despite Winkler’s advice, the guest star persisted, with Winkler later referring to him as “an a–back.” While Winkler didn’t disclose the actor’s name, he noted the character played was named Eugene.

Henry Winkler portrayed Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on “Happy Days” throughout its 11 seasons, from 1974 to 1984. This role launched Winkler’s successful career in film and television, earning a Golden Globe nomination for “Heroes,” and roles in movies like “The Waterboy,” “Holes,” and “Click.”

Winkler continues to experience new things on set, having recently filmed his first nude scene for the first episode of “Loot”‘s third season. He expressed his admiration for Maya Rudolph, calling her a “brilliant person and a lovely person.” Without even reading the script, he agreed to appear in “Loot,” only to be surprised by the costume fitting.

“A silk robe that went to there,” he said pointing to his upper thigh, “There was nothing else.” Filming took place in January on the beach, battling chilly winds but surrounded by Maya’s wonderful cast.

Winkler’s career includes two Golden Globe Awards for his role as Fonzie, but his first Emmy Award came in 2018 for his performance in “Barry.” On “Barry,” Winkler played Gene Cousineau, an acting coach who forms an unlikely friendship with Bill Hader’s character, a wanted assassin.

“Be yourself, be honest about your ability, prepare so that you are not a flash in the pan,” Winkler advised backstage after his Emmy win.

Reflecting on his roots in Hollywood, Winkler likened his career to a growing tree. “When I first started here in Hollywood … I thought of myself as a tree or sapling. I planted. I wanted to grow and be strong until I couldn’t do this anymore. And what a great tree it is.”

Lori A. Bashian reports on entertainment news at Fox News Digital.