He approaches a mirror, comb in hand. He takes a beat, then holds his hands wide—his hair is perfect. No need for the comb. For those of us who don’t have the “Happy Days” complete box set, this is Fonzie’s signature move. And Henry Winkler is responsible for it.

Producers wanted him to comb his hair in the bad-boy fashion, but Winkler pushed against them. He knew how to make his character stand out. And that kind of perseverance and creativity has been evident through his long, illustrious career. Once “the Fonz,” Winkler has appeared in a vast array of award-winning television projects, including “Parks and Recreation,” “Arrested Development” and “Barry.” And at the closing session on Monday, attendees of NECA 2025 Chicago were fortunate to witness his spark in person.

Winkler, who has achieved more than he ever could have imagined and believes “there is no right or wrong time to try your dream,” grew up with no such encouragement. His undiagnosed dyslexia made school a constant struggle, and the support he needed came much too late. Though his parents eventually prided themselves on being the ones “who made the Fonz,” he stated over and over: “I didn’t need them to be proud then. I needed them to be proud when life was a blur and when everything was confusing.”

As proof of his dedication to improving childhood for kids like him, Winkler has produced over 40 award-winning children’s books. He also wrote a memoir entitled “Being Henry: The Fonz and Beyond.” His marriage of 47 years and three children have influenced and benefitted from his optimism, sincerity and sheer goofiness.

In one short hour, after a whirlwind of a trade show, NECA 2025 Chicago attendees were filled with the spirit to dream and do. From him, we learned that tenacity and gratitude make life beautiful (and help you see it that way). And it’s true—you don’t need to comb your hair. It’s perfect.