Career Timeline of Henry Winkler: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Henry Winkler, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Henry Winkler is a versatile American actor, producer, director, and author, best known for his iconic role as Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli on the sitcom *Happy Days*. While he rose to fame through this role, Winkler has successfully transitioned into a celebrated character actor with diverse roles in television, film, and stage productions. He's earned recognition and numerous accolades, including Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Critics Choice Awards, highlighting his significant contributions and impact on the entertainment industry.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1980: Donation to the Smithsonian

In 1980, Henry Winkler donated Fonzie's leather jacket to the Smithsonian, which curator Eric Jentsch described as "a representation of cool at a time when you were learning about what cool was."

1981: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

In 1981, Henry Winkler received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Television, largely due to his portrayal of Fonzie.

2010: Key to the City of Winnipeg

In 2010, Henry Winkler was given the Key to the City of Winnipeg for "contributions to education and literacy".

2011: Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire

In 2011, Queen Elizabeth appointed Henry Winkler an Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) "for services to children with special educational needs and dyslexia in the UK".

2013: United Kingdom's Top 10 Literacy Heroes

In 2013, Henry Winkler was named one of the United Kingdom's Top 10 Literacy Heroes.

2019: Bill Rosendahl Public Service Award

In 2019, Henry Winkler was awarded the Bill Rosendahl Public Service Award for Contributions to the Public Good for his children's books by the Los Angeles Press Club.