Henry Jaynes Fonda (1905–82) was an American actor whose five-decade career made him one of Hollywood’s most respected performers. Known for his understated yet powerful portrayals, he often embodied the American everyman with depth and authenticity.
Born in Grand Island, Nebraska, Fonda initially studied journalism at the University of Minnesota before discovering his passion for acting. He started in theater, performing with the Omaha Community Playhouse before moving to Broadway. His Hollywood début in The Farmer Takes a Wife (1935) launched a career that included Jezebel (1938,) Young Mr. Lincoln (1939,) and The Grapes of Wrath (1940,) earning him an Academy Award nomination.
After serving in the U.S. Navy in World War II, he returned to film, starring in The Ox-Bow Incident (1943,) Mister Roberts (1955,) and 12 Angry Men (1957,) which he co-produced. His later career included Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) and On Golden Pond (1981,) the latter earning him his first Academy Award for Best Actor.
His autobiography, Fonda: My Life (1981,) recounts his journey. His daughter Jane Fonda and son Peter Fonda became acclaimed actors, while his granddaughter Bridget Fonda and grandson Troy Garity also pursued Hollywood careers.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Henry Fonda
The best actors do not let the wheels show.
—Henry Fonda
Topics: Acting, Actors
Get as much experience as you can so that you’re ready when luck works. That’s the luck.
—Henry Fonda
Topics: Luck, Fortune
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