Keck's Exclusives: The Fonz Gets Up

Henry Winkler

Ain't this cool? Former Fonz, Henry Winkler, is being eyed for the role of Ava's father, Robert, on NBC's Up All Night. "We're excited about Henry Winkler, and Maya Rudolph [Ava] just adores him," says the show's executive producer, Emily Spivey.

While Ava's mama was nutso, Spivey says Robert is "the more grounded and warm, loving parent. Even though he's flighty and a little irresponsible, he's a creative type who writes children's books. Henry, in the roles he's played, exudes a warmth and whimsy, which is why we thought of him."

In real life, Henry has authored the successful Hank Zipzer series of children's books, which was news to Spivey. "No way! I had absolutely no idea," she said when I clued her in. "I can't wait to talk to Henry."

Look for the character to debut in late April/early May, while Ava's mother, who tends bar in Florida and lives with a musician, would debut in Season 2. 

Subscribe to TV Guide Magazine now!

Advertisement

Editor's Picks

8:00PM ABC
8:00PM CBS
9:00PM The CW

Streaming

Find a TV Show

See more »

130523photo-Michael-Weatherly1

TV's Sexiest Crime Fighters

Check out NCIS' Tony Dinozzo and more of the most arresting law enforcers on the small screen

Our Partners

Shop

Buy One Direction: Up All Night - The Live Tour (U.S. Version) from Amazon.com

From Columbia (DVD)
Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy New: $13.80 (as of 05/24/13 5:21 PM EST - more info)

Buy An American Christmas Carol, actor Henry Winkler from Amazon.com

From Shout Factory (DVD)
Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy New: $9.99 (as of 05/24/13 2:27 AM EST - more info)

Buy The Maya Rudolph Handbook - Everything you need to know about Maya Rudolph from Amazon.com

From tebbo (Paperback)
Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy New: $19.85 (as of 05/24/13 5:59 AM EST - more info)