Henry Winkler discusses personal growth through therapy

Actor and director Henry Winkler shared insights into his experience with therapy during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show. The 81-year-old entertainer revealed that he felt “very confused” when he began the process in his 60s, noting that he initially struggled to understand emotional self-awareness.

Winkler used metaphors to describe his mental evolution, comparing his previous state to an oil drum that was clamped shut and his current progress to slowly peeling it back to let in the universe. He also described his personal journey as moving from being like “a chunk of Swiss cheese” with many holes to becoming “a chunk of cheddar.”

Reflecting on his five-decade career, Winkler attributed his professional longevity to a combination of luck, will, and preparation, noting the importance of mastering fundamentals to be ready when opportunities arise.