Actor Henry Winkler has been in the business for over five decades. Best known for his role as Fonzie on “Happy Days,” Winkler’s prolific career has included roles in a number of Adam Sandler-helmed projects, cartoons, movies, and commercials. Now, as his 80th birthday draws near, Winkler told Fox News he is still enjoying life and acting. “I love getting up in the morning. I love being alive. I love that I’m still at the table,” he said.  

When asked about which role impacted his life the most, Winkler mentioned some of his most well-known. “I don’t know,” he said. “I got the Fonz when I was 27, I got Barry when I [was] 72 and now … ‘Hazardous History.’” As “the Fonz,” Winkler became a national heartthrob. And while that may not be quite as true for the soon-to-be octogenarian, he says there is still one thing that hasn’t changed. “The way that I view the world, the way that I view my family and our puppies, the way that I view the human beings I meet all over the world,” he said. He said he’d like to be remembered as “a good human being.”  

Winkler also offered some acting advice. “One is, you must be tenacious. You must really eat and sleep and breathe you want to be in this industry,” he said. He also encouraged aspiring actors to be teachable. “The ear is the center of all things. Listening — listening to the creators, listening to yourself and listening to your fellow actors,” he said.  

Winkler’s earnest attitude towards life has earned him a “nice guy” image. He stated that kindness has never been a disadvantage. “Kindness has never been a disadvantage. Also, I don’t think of myself as a nice guy,” he said. “I think of myself as a grateful guy. My gratitude allows the journey — with all the bumps and the bruises and all of the success — to equal out.” His drive has earned him numerous awards, including being inducted into the 27th Television Academy Hall of Fame event. According to Winkler as he accepted the award, it’s more than he ever expected. “I dreamt maybe I would win an award. I never dreamt Hall of Fame,” he said. “Unbelievable. I am living my dream, and what I am the most proud of is… that I am still at the table.”