Henry Winkler Addresses Ongoing Tension with Tom Hanks: ‘I Am Still Working on My Perspective’

Henry Winkler has recently shared insights into his history with Tom Hanks, spotlighting their complicated relationship that has endured over the decades. In a candid discussion on “In Depth With Graham Bensinger,” the former television star reflected on his time as a director for the 1989 film “Turner & Hooch,” which featured Hanks in the lead role.

Winkler, who achieved fame as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on the beloved series “Happy Days,” admitted that he felt out of his depth when assigned to direct the film. The actor and director explained that despite his reservations, he was selected for the role by a Paramount executive. “I went completely against my tummy,” Winkler recounted, “and it hit me in the face with a 2×4.” He recalled meeting Hanks and the film’s canine co-star, feeling insecure and overwhelmed during the early stages of production.

During this period, Winkler felt compelled to assert his direction on set, a decision he later regretted. “I talked too much and I gave them direction. I [did] what I thought was my job, and I wanted to do it over again, and apparently that pissed them off,” he shared. His tenure as director was abruptly cut short after just 13 days of filming when he was summoned to the office of studio executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, where he was informed that he had been removed from the project. “I don’t handle it well. I’m devastated,” Winkler admitted as he recounted the moment he learned he was no longer part of the film’s direction.

Winkler’s connection to Hanks goes back to the days of “Happy Days,” which aired from 1974 to 1984. Hanks made a guest appearance on the series before he established himself as a prominent actor in Hollywood. Winkler reminisced about Hanks’s early days, noting, “I don’t know because, when Tom, before he was a movie star, he was a guest star on Happy Days.” He recalled that during a retrospective on the series, the production sought to include a brief segment featuring Hanks, but permission was not granted.

When prompted about his feelings towards their relationship, Winkler expressed that he is still coming to terms with it, saying, “I am still working on my perspective.” He highlighted that Rita Wilson, Hanks’s wife, also appeared on “Happy Days” early in her career, adding another layer to their shared history.

Despite the turbulence, Winkler conveyed a sense of hope for reconciliation, stating, “Sure,” when asked if he believed the relationship could be repaired. He also revealed a sentimental memento from their time together on “Turner & Hooch” – a signed model plane that Hanks crafted during their meetings. “While we were having meetings, he built a plastic Piper Cub or something like that,” Winkler recalled fondly, indicating that there are positive memories associated with Hanks.

Maintaining his status as a television icon, Winkler remained with “Happy Days” until its conclusion, garnering four Emmy nominations for his role. He was later awarded an Emmy in 2018 for his performance as Gene Cousineau in HBO’s “Barry.” Hanks, meanwhile, transitioned from “Happy Days” to his own successful path, starring in sitcoms such as “Bosom Buddies” before becoming a cinematic powerhouse. His illustrious film career includes two Academy Awards, with memorable performances in acclaimed titles like “Forrest Gump,” “Saving Private Ryan,” and “Philadelphia.”

Reflecting on their mutual journey through the entertainment industry, Winkler seems to have both admiration and contention towards Hanks. As they both continue to evolve creatively, the potential for their relationship to heal remains an open question, underscoring the complexities of professional connections in a competitive field.