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Henry Fonda

What's After the Movie

Henry Fonda

Henry Jaynes Fonda (May 16, 1905 – August 12, 1982) was an acclaimed American actor with a career that spanned five decades both on Broadway and in Hollywood. His everyman persona was a constant in his on-screen and stage performances. Born and brought up in Nebraska, Fonda made his mark on Broadway before making his Hollywood debut in 1935. His performances in films such as 'Jezebel' (1938), 'Jesse James' (1939) and 'Young Mr. Lincoln' (1939) catapulted him into stardom. He was also a hero on the military front, serving in the United States Navy during the World War II. Fonda's later years saw him portraying a wide array of characters, from villains to military figures. In his final performance in 'On Golden Pond' (1981), Fonda cemented his legacy, winning the Academy Award for Best Actor. Fonda was also the patriarch of a family of actors, including children Jane and Peter Fonda, and grandchildren Bridget Fonda and Troy Garity. His career, influence, and contributions to cinema were recognized with various awards and, in 1999, he was named the sixth-Greatest Male Screen Legend of the Classic Hollywood Era by the American Film Institute.

Beyond his professional life, Fonda's personal story is marked by his five marriages and three children, and his political inclination towards the Democratic party. Despite his emotionally distant relationships with his children, Fonda's legacy lives on through them, with both Jane and Peter Fonda becoming successful actors in their own right. The undeniable aura of Fonda's 'everyman' persona in his performances remains a testament to his career spanning decades in the film industry. His life was a mix of professional success and personal challenges, yet he stays remembered as a stalwart of classic Hollywood cinema.

17 movies
6 nominations

Biography, Career & Filmography

Learn more about Henry Fonda, including a detailed biography, career timeline, personal life insights, and complete filmography. Discover how Henry Fonda rose to fame, their major roles, industry impact, and personal milestones in the world of film.


Given Name: Henry Jaynes Fonda

Born: Grand Island, Nebraska, U.S.

Citizenship: United States

Birthday: May 16, 1905

Occupations: Actor

Years Active: 1928-1981

Children: 3

Spouses: Margaret Sullavan, Frances Ford Seymour, Susan Blanchard, Afdera Franchetti, Shirlee Mae Adams

Awards and Nominations Received by Henry Fonda

Explore awards

Explore the awards, honors, and nominations Henry Fonda has earned across their acting career. From prestigious wins to critical acclaim, see how their talent has been recognized by the film industry and major award bodies.


36th British Academy Film Awards 1983

Nomination

Best Actor in a Leading Role

On Golden Pond

The 54th Academy Awards 1982

Win

Actor in a Leading Role

On Golden Pond

39th Golden Globe Awards 1982

Nomination

Best Performance in a Motion Picture – Drama (Actor)

On Golden Pond

11th British Academy Film Awards 1958

Win

Best Foreign Actor

12 Angry Men

15th Golden Globe Awards 1958

Nomination

Best Actor - Drama

12 Angry Men

The 13th Academy Awards 1941

Nomination

Actor

The Grapes of Wrath

Career Timeline

Track the complete movie timeline of Henry Fonda, including all film releases, career breakthroughs, and notable roles. Follow their journey from early performances to recent blockbusters and upcoming projects.


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