Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli may have lived by his own code of cool, but when the legendary Henry Winkler welcomes his grandchildren into his home, there are still a few simple ground rules everyone respects.
The beloved Happy Days icon, now 80, has traded leather jackets for story time, and the role he clearly treasures most today is being “Papa” to his growing family.
‘Phenomenal’ family
Henry Winkler, who was 29 when he first captured the hearts of audiences in 1974 as the effortlessly charismatic Fonzie, has built a life that extends far beyond television fame. Over the years, he has created a close-knit family with his wife Stacey Weitzman, whom he married in May 1978.
Together, they raised their children Max, 42, and Zoe, 46, along with Stacey’s son Jed, 55, from a previous marriage.
Today, that family has grown even larger, with Winkler proudly embracing life as a grandfather of seven: India, Ace, Lulu, Jules, Gus, Francis Joan, and the newest arrival, welcomed in 2024 by his son Max and daughter-in-law Jessica Barden.
“We have [seven] phenomenal grandchildren, and they add so much to your life,” Winkler said.
‘Completely different than being a parent’
Henry Winkler says being a grandfather feels completely different from parenting
Although Winkler has decades of parenting experience, he describes grandparenting as something unique, filled with both familiarity and discovery.
Speaking with People, the star of Barry shared how the emotional connection remains just as strong, even if the responsibilities feel lighter and more joyful.
“It is different, completely different than being a parent,” Winkler said, “but it is filled with the same emotion.”
Winkler also noted that each of his grandchildren brings a distinct personality to the family dynamic, which makes the experience even richer.
“Every one of them is different. You have to approach each one completely differently.”
Simple house rules
Though he’s a doting grandpa, Winkler insists he doesn’t spoil the kids and has some strict rules when they gather at his home.
“Now the rules in the house, and there are a few, only a few, are the same,” he told People. “When the youngest granddaughter is sleeping, there is no fighting, there is no yelling. They are in charge of their friends to keep it down.”
Another expectation applies to everyone, regardless of age.
“No matter what age they are, from 14 to 7, they have to clear their dish.”
TikTok stars
The small but meaningful rule reflects the kind of values Winkler encourages at home, where respect and responsibility are part of everyday life, yet laughter and connection are never far behind.
The Golden Globe winner clearly adores his grandchildren and often features them in fun TikTok videos they create together, showing just how much he enjoys spending time with them.
“I’m only on TikTok with my grandkids,” Winkler said said. “My oldest granddaughter, India, said ‘Papa, you have to make a TikTok.’ So I think I’ve made 7 or 8, but only, mostly, with them.”
Those lighthearted moments reflect the close bond he shares with the younger generation, a connection that continues to grow as his grandchildren become part of more of life’s memorable experiences alongside him.
Grandsons make red-carpet debut
Family support remains a central theme in Winkler’s life, and recently two of his grandsons stepped into the spotlight alongside him at the Los Angeles premiere of his film Normal on April 15, 2026.
The event became a memorable milestone, as the two red-headed boys experienced “their first” red-carpet appearance.
When asked by People why the boys were at the premiere, Winkler replied: “Well, you know what? To support their grandfather, Papa. To support Papa.”
The actor also explained that not every grandchild was able to attend, with school responsibilities keeping some at home.
“They are wonderful. There are four girls, 1, 4, 13, 16,” Winkler said, before adding, “They’re home. Too much homework.”
What do you think about Henry Winkler’s approach to family life and the simple rules he has for his grandkids? Share your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to pass this story along to friends and family who grew up loving the Fonz!
