Henry Winkler, the beloved actor known for his iconic role as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on Happy Days, Henry Winkler: From Fonzie to Firestorms continues to captivate audiences at 79 with a career that spans television, film, and now, a controversial social media presence. From his upcoming nostalgia-driven show on The History Channel to a recent viral theory about Los Angeles wildfires, Winkler’s name has been making headlines in 2025. Here’s a look at the latest developments surrounding this Hollywood legend, his enduring legacy, and the debates that keep him in the spotlight.
On May 20, 2025, The History Channel announced that Henry Winkler will star in a new series, Hazardous History with Henry Winkler, set to premiere on June 15, 2025, at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The eight-part docuseries, produced by A+E Factual Studios and GroupM Motion Entertainment, will see Winkler explore quirky and dangerous pastimes, practices, and products from America’s past—think explosive science kits and deadly kite tubes. The show promises to blend Winkler’s charm with a nostalgic look at bygone eras, appealing to fans of his Happy Days days and younger audiences alike.
Winkler’s return to TV comes on the heels of a heartwarming Happy Days reunion at Steel City Con in Pittsburgh on April 5, 2025. Joined by co-stars Ron Howard, Anson Williams, and Don Most, Winkler celebrated the sitcom’s legacy, which ran from 1974 to 1984 and defined 1950s Americana. “This is the first time we’ve appeared this way in 50 years,” Winkler told the enthusiastic crowd, while Howard jokingly added, “It feels like 50 minutes.” The event, a rare public gathering of the core cast, sparked joy among fans and even led to Allegheny County declaring a “Happy Days Day.”
Winkler’s journey to stardom wasn’t without challenges. Speaking at Georgetown University’s 2025 commencement on May 19, 2025, he shared an inspiring message with graduates: “All things are possible.” Reflecting on his struggles with geometry in school and his determination to become an actor, Winkler called himself “living proof” that perseverance pays off. His speech, filled with warmth and humor, resonated with students and fans, who praised his joyful presence at the event.
Beyond Happy Days, Winkler has reinvented himself multiple times. His Emmy-winning role as Gene Cousineau in Barry showcased his depth as a character actor, earning him critical acclaim in his 70s. He’s also set to star in two upcoming films: Old Pals, a comedy with Brian Cox, Emma Roberts, and Evan Rachel Wood, and Rolling Loud, a hip-hop comedy featuring Owen Wilson, Ty Dolla $ign, and Sexyy Red. In Rolling Loud, Winkler’s involvement has sparked buzz, with a playful mention of a “rap album” expected in 2029—though it’s unclear if this is a joke or a real project.
While Winkler’s career moves have delighted fans, his recent comments on social media have stirred controversy. In January 2025, as wildfires ravaged Los Angeles, claiming lives and destroying over 34,000 acres, Winkler posted on X: “THERE IS an ARSONIST here in LA. May you be beaten you unrecognizable !!! The pain you have caused !!!” His theory, suggesting the fires were deliberately set, went viral, amassing over 3.6 million views. Other celebrities, including Khloe Kardashian and Yvette Nicole Brown, echoed similar sentiments, fueling online speculation.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) quickly responded, stating there was “no solid evidence” of arson, dismissing Winkler’s claims. Despite this, his posts resonated with some fans, one of whom commented, “How is it possible for the fires to keep jumping for miles and miles?” Winkler’s Brentwood home was in an evacuation zone during the Palisades fire, adding a personal dimension to his outspokenness. However, the LAFD’s rebuttal and subsequent reports of an arson investigation at Victory Trailhead, with one person in custody, kept the debate alive.
The backlash was swift, with some accusing Winkler of spreading misinformation. Yet, his supporters argued he was voicing legitimate concerns about the fires’ rapid spread. This incident highlights the double-edged sword of celebrity influence in the digital age, where a single post can spark widespread debate.
Winkler’s personal life has also been in the news. At the iHeartRadio Music Awards in March 2025, he and his daughter Zoe discussed her podcast, What in the Winkler?!, which explores their family dynamics and growing up in Hollywood. Zoe humorously revealed she “used [Winkler] like a garden tool” during his Happy Days fame, leveraging his celebrity status as a teen. Winkler also shared that he vetoed Zoe’s potential appearances on The Bachelorette and a show with Kim Kardashian, citing his protective instincts.
Additionally, Bryce Dallas Howard, daughter of Ron Howard, praised Winkler and his wife Stacey as “incredible” godparents on Zoe’s podcast. This personal connection underscores Winkler’s close bond with the Howard family, despite past tensions. In a March 2025 interview, Winkler revealed that Ron Howard once admitted feeling “hurt” when Fonzie’s popularity overshadowed his character, Richie Cunningham, on Happy Days. The two discussed it openly during a podcast recording, reaffirming their friendship.
Winkler’s ability to stay relevant is remarkable. From turning down the role of Danny Zuko in Grease to avoid typecasting to embracing diverse projects like Barry and Hazardous History, he continues to defy expectations. His upcoming films and TV series signal a busy year, while his candid social media presence keeps him connected to fans—sometimes controversially.
The Happy Days star’s influence extends beyond entertainment. His commencement speech at Georgetown and his reflections on perseverance inspire a new generation, while his willingness to speak out on issues like the L.A. fires shows a man unafraid to engage with the world around him. However, the arson controversy serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with a platform, especially in an era of rapid information spread.
As Winkler prepares for Hazardous History and his film roles, fans are eager to see how he’ll blend nostalgia with fresh energy. His reunion with Happy Days co-stars and his heartfelt interactions with fans at events like Steel City Con prove that, like Fonzie, Winkler remains effortlessly cool. Yet, his recent misstep on social media shows he’s human, navigating the complexities of fame in 2025.
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