Henry Winkler, known for his iconic role as The Fonz on "Happy Days," has spoken candidly about a period of tension with actor Tom Hanks that stemmed from Winkler's dismissal as director of the 1989 film "Turner & Hooch."
Winkler revealed in an interview with Graham Bensinger that he was hired to direct the dog-and-cop comedy by studio executive Jeffrey Katzenberg. During his 13 days of filming, Winkler said he engaged frequently with Hanks and the film's canine stars, providing what he believed was necessary direction.
"I talked too much and I gave them direction," Winkler recalled, admitting that his insecurity at the time may have contributed to his approach. "I did what I thought was my job, and I wanted to do it over again; and apparently that pissed them off."
The "Barry" star confessed to feeling he was not "suited" for the screwball comedy genre and described his dismissal as "devastating." He was called into Katzenberg's office, informed that his work was "not in the dailies," and subsequently instructed to gather his belongings and leave the set.
Winkler acknowledged that he "didn't handle it well" at the time. Prior to his firing, Hanks had gifted him a model airplane, which Winkler mentioned during their meetings. The incident, however, appeared to cool their relationship.
Winkler noted that Hanks had a guest appearance on "Happy Days" in 1982, before becoming a major movie star. Winkler, who became a household name for portraying Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli, reflected on the prior connection.
Regarding their current dynamic, Winkler stated that he is "still working on" his perspective and expressed optimism that the relationship could eventually "repair itself."
This account contrasts with a 2020 interview where Winkler denied any feud with Hanks. "I don't have a feud with Tom Hanks," he told Vanity Fair at the time. "What everybody says and what is true are two different things."