10 fun and interesting Henry Fonda facts

1. Icon of Hollywood's Golden Age

Henry Fonda, the iconic actor of the golden age of Hollywood, was no stranger to the craft of acting. Before he became a household name, he studied under the tutelage of Dorothy Brando, the mother of Marlon Brando. Dorothy was a renowned acting coach and her teachings helped shape the career of Henry Fonda, who went on to become one of the most celebrated actors of his time.

Also → Jane Fonda and father Henry Fonda both nominated for Oscars

2. Henry Fonda, legendary actor and scout master, passed away

Henry Fonda was an exemplary role model for young people. After earning the title of Life Scout in adulthood, he went on to become a scout master, dedicating his time to helping young people learn the values of scouting. He was passionate about teaching the importance of respect, responsibility, and leadership, and his commitment to the scouting movement was unwavering.

Also → Bridget Fonda: Hollywood Actress with Famous Family Lineage

3. Father of Two Famous Stars

Henry Fonda was a renowned Hollywood actor, best known for being the father of two equally famous stars, Jane and Peter Fonda. Jane went on to become an Academy Award-winning actress, while Peter became a successful actor, director, and producer. Both siblings have achieved great success in the entertainment industry, and their father's legacy lives on through them.

Also → Kevin Spacey's Idols: Fonda, Pacino, Lemmon

4. Henry Fonda, Model Airplane and Kite Maker

Henry Fonda was an avid hobbyist, known for his passion for model airplanes and kites. He would often spend hours crafting intricate models of planes, and his kites were renowned for their unique designs. He was so passionate about his hobbies that he even wrote a book about them, titled 'Model Airplanes and Kites'. His love for these activities was so strong that he even passed it on to his children, who also enjoyed making model airplanes and kites.

Also → Father-daughter Oscar-winning duo

5. Henry Fonda becomes oldest Oscar winner

At the ripe age of 76, Henry Fonda made history when he became the oldest person to ever win an Oscar. His win was a testament to his long and successful career in the film industry, having starred in over 90 films and television shows throughout his lifetime. His Oscar win was for his performance in the 1981 film On Golden Pond, in which he played the role of Norman Thayer.

6. Henry Fonda - Hollywood's "Ladies Man"

In Hollywood, Henry Fonda was renowned as a "ladies man" - his reputation for having multiple affairs with various actresses was well-known. He was linked to some of the biggest names in the industry, including Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis, and Rita Hayworth. His relationships with these women were often short-lived, but they left a lasting impression on the Hollywood scene.

7. Henry Fonda and John Ford's friendship came to an abrupt end

Henry Fonda and director John Ford had a long-standing professional relationship, working together on multiple films over the years. However, their friendship came to an abrupt end in 1955 when Ford punched Fonda in the face while they were filming the movie "Mister Roberts". This shocking incident marked the end of their friendship and the two never worked together again.

8. Henry Fonda and James Stewart: Brothers in Acting

Henry Fonda and James Stewart were more than just friends - they were like brothers. The two actors were so close that they even shared a room on two separate occasions. Their friendship was so strong that it lasted for decades, and they were often seen together in public, attending events and enjoying each other's company.

9. Actor & Beekeeper

Henry Fonda was an actor known for his roles in classic films such as "The Grapes of Wrath" and "On Golden Pond". But he had a strange hobby that he was passionate about - beekeeping. He was so passionate about it that he incorporated it into his role in the 1997 film "Ulee's Gold". In the film, he plays a beekeeper who is struggling to keep his family together. He even had to learn how to handle bees for the role, and he was said to have enjoyed the experience.

10. Henry Fonda honored with Father of the Year award

In 1963, Henry Fonda was honored with the prestigious title of Father of the Year. This award is given to a father who has demonstrated exemplary parenting skills and has made a positive impact on his children's lives. Fonda was recognized for his commitment to his children, his dedication to their well-being, and his willingness to go above and beyond to ensure their success. His children have gone on to become successful actors, directors, and producers, and his legacy as a father continues to live on.