Henry Winkler, best known as Fonzie from Happy Days, has traded his leather jacket days for a quieter role he loves even more—being “Papa” to his seven grandchildren. Now 80, he shares a close bond with his family, built with his wife Stacey Weitzman and their blended family.
He says grandparenting is “completely different than being a parent,” but just as emotional, with each grandchild having their own personality. “You have to approach each one differently,” he explained.
Despite being a doting grandfather, Winkler keeps simple house rules: no noise when the youngest is sleeping and everyone must clear their dishes, no matter their age. He also enjoys making TikTok videos with his grandkids after his oldest encouraged him to join.
Recently, two of his grandsons even joined him at the premiere of Normal, calling it their first red-carpet experience, showing how important family support is to him.
For Winkler, fame matters less now than family: “We have phenomenal grandchildren, and they add so much to your life.”