Happy Days’ Henry Winkler, 73, delights crowd with iconic ‘Fonz dance’

Henry Winkler proved he’s still got the moves when he stepped onto the stage on an American talk show this week with a spur of the moment performance of his iconic ‘Fonz dance’.

The 73-year-old received a rousing applause from the excited audience at The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon as he launched into the dance just as he did throughout the 1970s and ’80s.

As if no time had passed since he played Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on the much loved show Happy Days, Winkler kicked his legs up with ease, dancing his way across the stage.

With much attitude, the actor showed off his energetic spirit with star jumps while host Fallon, who obviously wasn’t expecting such a show, looked on with sheer excitement.

Once finished Winkler bowed and blew kisses to the audience who cheered and clapped in delight.

“That’s what I’m talking about,” Fallon said. “Henry Winkler, that was amazing. You got your monies worth there, oh my goodness. I love you so much.”

Fallon, who was still in a state of shock and excitement went on to say how happy he was to have Winkler on the show, claiming he is a massive fan of the star.

“I have heard so many great stories about you and I’ve always wanted to meet you and have you on,” he said. “I’m just a giant fan.” To which Winkler replied: “I can absolutely return the compliment.”

The video has since been shared online, with many fans sharing their admiration of Winkler and their memories watching him on Happy Days throughout their childhood.

“It was all about Happy Days in my home back in the day. And ‘The Fonz’ was my favourite. Love, love, love Henry Winkler, what an icon,” one person commented on YouTube. “I love Henry Winkler! Loved him in Happy Days, watched him every week,” another wrote.

While a third said: “The man is a legend and maybe one of the most genuinely wonderful and likeable people in Hollywood.”

Winkler became a household name for his portrayal of Fonzie in Happy Days throughout the 1970s and ’80s, and last year he delighted fans when he shared some of his favourite moments on the show.

The 73-year-old star appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live where he opened up about meeting The Beatles – and even admitted he was ignored by Paul McCartney after thinking they’d hit it off and were destined for friendship.

The grandfather-of-five looked incredibly energetic as he sat down with the host on the US chat show, and laughed and joked about the awkward moment decades later.

“I met Paul on Lexington Avenue… We’re walking down the street, my wife Stacey and I, and we stop and he goes ‘The Fonz’,” Winkler recalled.

Read more: Henry Winkler reveals awkward moment McCartney shunned him

After happily chatting in the street for a while, Henry even walked away with the musician’s phone number – apparently having formed a strong bond in a few short minutes. But it wasn’t to be.

He explained: “He [Paul] said ‘we should get together’,” and asked by Jimmy if they did, Henry replied: “He never answered!”

Are you a fan of Henry Winkler? Do you remember watching him on Happy Days?