Last updated on: December 18, 2024

Henry Fonda was one of the greatest actors in American history. He was not only a celebrated performer but also the father of actress Jane Fonda. Let’s know more about his life, career, and family.

Quick Facts About Henry Fonda

Full Name	Henry Jaynes Fonda
Birthdate	May 16, 1905
Died Height	12 August 1982 (age 77 years) 1.87 m
Occupation	Actor
Husband/Wife	Married 5 times: Margaret Sullavan, Frances Ford Seymour, Susan Blanchard, Afdera Franchetti, Shirlee Fonda
Education	University of Minnesota (did not graduate)
Parents	William Brace Fonda, Herberta Elma Jaynes
Siblings	Harriet Fonda
Children	Jane Fonda, Peter Fonda, Amy Fishman
Net Worth	Estimated $20 million (at death)

Early Life and Family

Henry Jaynes Fonda was born on May 16, 1905, in Grand Island, Nebraska. His parents were William Brace Fonda, a printer, and Herberta Elma Jaynes. The Fonda family was of Italian descent. Their ancestors were from Genoa, Italy, and then moved to the Netherlands before finally settling in New York in the 1640s.

He hails from a middle-class background. Henry was a shy boy. He had gone to the University of Minnesota. He started his course in journalism but could not complete the degree. The love for acting came when he joined a small theater group at Omaha, Nebraska.

Journey into Acting

Henry’s acting career started on stage. He was part of the Provincetown Players in Massachusetts and later of the University Players Guild. The latter exposed him to other fine actors, such as James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan. These early years of his life formed his career and prepared him for Hollywood.

Personal Life

Henry’s personal life was dramatic. He was married five times:

Margaret Sullavan (1931–1933) – This marriage was brief.

Frances Ford Seymour (1936–1950) – Frances was the mother of Jane Fonda and Peter Fonda. Unfortunately, she died in 1950.

Susan Blanchard (1950–1956) – They divorced after six years.

Afdera Franchetti (1957–1961) – This marriage also ended in divorce.

Shirlee Fonda (1965–1982) – Shirlee was his wife until his death.

Henry had two children with Frances: Jane and Peter. Both became successful actors.

Hollywood Stardom

Henry Fonda’s film career started in the late 1930s. He quickly became a Hollywood favorite. His roles often portrayed honesty and strength.

Key Films:

The Grapes of Wrath (1940): This film earned him widespread acclaim. His performance as Tom Joad showcased his talent.

12 Angry Men (1957): This courtroom drama became a classic. Henry played the role of a determined juror.

On Golden Pond (1981): This was his last film and one of his most touching performances. He starred alongside his daughter, Jane Fonda.

Awards:

Henry won an Academy Award for Best Actor for On Golden Pond in 1982.

He also received a Tony Award in 1948 and the Kennedy Center Honors in 1979.

Relationship with Jane Fonda

Henry and Jane’s relationship was complex. Henry, as a father, was not close and aloof. This made their bond challenging. However, they managed to reconnect later in life.

On Golden Pond was a very important collaboration for them. The story of the film was almost a reflection of their real-life struggles. Jane once said that they had a very meaningful conversation before he died. She told him she loved him, which was a meaningful moment for both.

READ ALSO: Jane Fonda Net worth, Age, Boyfriend, Family, Facts & More

Later Years and Legacy

Henry’s health began to decline in the late 1970s. This, however did not stop him from acting and inspiring others. He died on August 12, 1982, when he was 77 years old. He died from heart disease.

Henry’s legacy is left behind by his outstanding movies and children. His passion for acting was taken over by Jane Fonda and Peter Fonda. Jane Fonda talks about the impact her father had on her life often.

Fun Facts

Henry’s roots went back to Italian immigrants who came to America in the 17th century.

He was good friends with another Hollywood legend, James Stewart.

Despite all his serious movie roles, Henry had a great sense of humor.

 

Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com