Early Life and Education of Henry Winkler: A Complete Timeline
Discover the defining moments in the early life of Henry Winkler. From birth to education, explore key events.
Henry Winkler is a multifaceted American entertainer known for his work as an actor, producer, director, and author. He achieved immense popularity as Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli in the sitcom *Happy Days*. Beyond this iconic role, Winkler has cultivated a respected career as a character actor, showcasing his versatility on stage and screen. His contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.
1939: Winkler's father Leaves Germany
In 1939, Henry Winkler's father left Germany on a six-week visa with the intention of starting a new life in New York due to rising hostilities.
October 30, 1945: Henry Winkler's Birth
On October 30, 1945, Henry Franklin Winkler was born. He later became an American actor, producer, director, and author, best known for his role as Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli on Happy Days.
1963: Enrolled at Emerson College
In 1963, Henry Winkler enrolled in Emerson College in Boston, majoring in theater and minoring in child psychology.
1963: Graduation from McBurney School
In 1963, Henry Winkler graduated from McBurney School, though he couldn't attend the ceremony due to needing to repeat geometry in summer school.
1967: Graduation from Emerson College
In 1967, Henry Winkler graduated from Emerson College after nearly failing his first and second years.
1967: Admitted to Yale School of Drama
In 1967, Henry Winkler was admitted to the M.F.A. program at the Yale School of Drama despite his undiagnosed dyslexia causing him to improvise his audition.
1970: Received MFA from Yale
In 1970, Henry Winkler graduated with his MFA from Yale, one of only 11 from his original cohort of 25 actors.
1978: Honorary Doctorate from Emerson College
In 1978, Emerson College awarded Henry Winkler an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (DHL).
July 1984: End of Happy Days series
In July 1984, Henry Winkler's successful role as "Fonzie" came to a close after the Happy Days series ended.
1984: Happy Days Concludes
In 1984, Henry Winkler's successful run as "Fonzie" on Happy Days came to an end after a decade on television.
May 1996: Senior Class Day Speaker at Yale University
In May 1996, Henry Winkler served as the Senior Class Day Speaker for Yale University's graduating seniors.
