Henry Winkler Prevented His Daughter Zoe From Doing Reality TV

Legendary actor Henry Winkler ended his daughter’s chance at a reality TV career before it even started. Speaking on her podcast, What In The Winkler, Zoe recalls her famous father “put a stop” to her pursuit of a show.

She says, “Do you remember when I was in the running to be on The Bachelorette?” The 44-year-old mother of three continues by revisiting the time she and reality star Kim Kardashian were both up for a show called Quarter Life Crisis.

Zoe and her dad talk about the moment he made the life-changing decision for her when he gracefully turned down the offer to the producer of the show. “I said, ‘It is so lovely that you’re here, I can suggest some really good restaurants, but my daughter is not doing your show.'” He later joked to Zoe, asking her for a “thank you.” He continued talking about Zoe’s natural ability of teaching, “I’m not kidding, it’s not because I’m your dad. I’m just objectively telling you I saw it happen. If I were a young parent, at the time I saw the way you parent, and the way you taught, I would have stolen your technique and used it as my go-to.”

Looking back, Zoe admits that her dad was simply looking out for her best interests and in doing so, helped her realize her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher rather than a reality star. “I became a teacher, which was the best job and what I always truly wanted to do.” She currently works at This Is About Humanity, a non-profit organization that raises awareness about those families who were separated at the US and Mexico border.

Winkler made his permanent mark in television and pop culture history with his portrayal of Arthur “The Fonz” Fonzarelli on Happy Days. Airing for 11 seasons, the Emmy-winning sitcom told the story of American teenagers based in the 1950s. Winkler’s leather-jacket wearing character was originally planned as a supporting role, but was soon bumped to top billing as his popularity with audiences soared. Happy Days was known for it’s catchy intro song and wholesome storylines and is also credited with launching the career of Ron Howard, who would eventually go on to become one of Hollywood’s greatest directors.