Henry Fonda

Date of Birth: May 16, 1905

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: August 12, 1982

Biography

Henry Jaynes Fonda was an iconic American actor whose career spanned over five decades in both film and theater. Born on May 16, 1905, in Grand Island, Nebraska, Fonda is best remembered for his roles in classic films such as “The Grapes of Wrath,” “12 Angry Men,” and “On Golden Pond.” His performances often portrayed stoic, morally upright characters, earning him a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most reliable leading men of his era. Fonda began his acting career in theater, making his way to Broadway before transitioning to film in the 1930s. He quickly became a household name, known for his versatility and commanding presence on screen. Throughout his career, he collaborated with some of the most renowned directors of his time, including John Ford and Sidney Lumet. Fonda’s role in “The Grapes of Wrath” (1940) earned him his first Academy Award nomination, and he eventually won an Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in “On Golden Pond” (1981), shortly before his death. Outside of his professional life, Fonda was a dedicated family man. He had three children, including future Hollywood stars Jane Fonda and Peter Fonda, who followed in their father’s footsteps. Henry Fonda’s legacy continues to influence actors and filmmakers to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Fonda

1. Henry Fonda served in the United States Navy during World War II, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade.

2. He was a lifelong friend of actor James Stewart, with whom he shared a passion for model airplanes.

3. Fonda was awarded the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award in 1978.

4. He was known for his distinctive, calm demeanor and often played characters who were paragons of virtue.

5. Henry Fonda was originally a stage actor and had a successful Broadway career before transitioning to film.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Fonda

1. “I hope I’m not a ham, but I do like to act.”

2. “It has to do with seeing something as a whole rather than as a sum of parts. It’s a different way of seeing.”

3. “I’ve been close to Bette Davis for thirty-eight years – and I have the cigarette burns to prove it.”

4. “My whole life has been decided by fate.”

5. “I don’t want to just sell war bonds. I want to be a part of the Navy.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Henry Fonda’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.

Children

Henry Fonda had three children: Jane Fonda, Peter Fonda, and Amy Fishman (née Fonda). Jane Fonda is an acclaimed actress, political activist, and fitness guru. Peter Fonda was also a successful actor, best known for his role in “Easy Rider.” Amy Fishman is less well-known but has been involved in the arts and philanthropy.