The Hidden Controversies of Henry Fonda’s Life

In his super interesting autobiography from 1998, Peter Fonda talked about his dad, Henry, who was emotionally distant. He remembered how quiet and cold things got at family dinners. His dad had a weird way of showing love—through getting angry. It wasn’t until Henry got older that Peter finally heard those three magic words: “I love you, son.”

Jane, Henry’s daughter, had similar feelings. She felt like her dad, Henry, was emotionally distant, too. He made her believe that love only came with perfection, which messed her up and led her to struggle with bulimia. Growing up, she felt like she had to always make everyone happy. But Henry’s not-so-great parenting skills didn’t end there; he wasn’t exactly the best husband either.