Henry ‘the Fonz’ Winkler Turns 68

Henry Winkler celebrates his 68th birthday today, and we will always think of him as the "Fonz". Fonzie on Happy Days  was cool. I loved the Fonz when I was growing up, and I wanted to be just like him. The Fonz is one of the most iconic characters in television history. He was the coolest of the cool, and I had Fonzie posters on my bedroom wall. Yes, I wanted to be like him – but, truthfully,  I’m glad I’m not.

I remember my friends and I always walking around saying “Heyyyyyyyyyyy” with our thumbs sticking up, just like Fonzie. We wanted to be “cool” with the girls, and we walked around with the delusion that all the girls were in love with us.

It’s not that Fonzie was all bad. The fact is, at his core he had a very good heart. Think of all the times he stood up for his friend, Richie, coming to his rescue time after time, or the time he danced with Joanie in the dance marathon, despite being dead on his feet after being up for over 24 hours.

And what man wouldn’t want the confidence Fonzie has with the ladies? Or just the confidence he displays – period.

It’s possible, though, that Fonzie is too confident. Often times he comes across as cocky and arrogant, with a better-than-everyone-else attitude. This is not an attractive or endearing quality.

And, have you noticed? Fonzie has a temper, although he tries desperately to keep it under control.

As for the ladies, well, he’s a ladies’ man that’s for sure. But, would a girl really want to be with a guy who has been with so many women? Would you feel like just another notch on his belt, or would you feel and hope that it will be “different” with you?

So, although over 35 years ago it was fun to act like Fonzie,  I’m happy to say I did not become the Fonz.. But, Henry, thanks for creating such a great character – and have a happy birthday!