Henry Winkler, beloved for his role as Fonzie in “Happy Days,” recently took to social media in a moment of frustration. He suggested that the tragic wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles were set intentionally by an arsonist. His passionate message called for the person responsible to face serious consequences, illustrating the pain and destruction caused by these fires.
Just a couple of days after Los Angeles found itself grappling with these fierce, wind-driven wildfires, Winkler, who calls the city’s Brentwood area home, voiced his concerns online. His post immediately caught the attention of many, resonating with his considerable fanbase.
Winkler’s post read, “THERE IS an ARSONIST here in LA,” followed by a wish that the arsonist face a harsh retribution for the devastation caused. The message quickly went viral, garnering millions of views and sparking widespread discussion.
Many online reacted positively to Winkler’s words, expressing similar suspicions and fears. One user noted, “I was wondering about this thought…because no one has said how it was caused,” while another pondered the possibility of multiple arsonists at work.
This sentiment shared by Winkler and others reflects a common anxiety about the safety of communities plagued by such disasters, and the notion that envy of California’s prosperity might drive such malicious acts.
THERE IS an ARSONIST here in LA . May you be beaten you unrecognizable !!! The pain you have caused !!!
— Henry Winkler (@hwinkler4real) January 9, 2025
His post also sparked further debate. Some questioned if the fires were the work of a lone arsonist or perhaps a coordinated attack, discussing the number and locations of the fires as potentially indicative of a broader plan.
Inevitably, Winkler’s candid remarks also drew some criticism. Among them, some voiced that the actor had stepped out of his usual character, calling his remarks a descent into conspiracy theorizing.
Responding to the uproar, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) released a statement reminding the public and media alike that, as of now, no definitive proof links any of the fires to arson. The department, following protocol, has instigated a thorough investigation, standard for incidents of this scale.
The LAFD’s response underscores the lack of solid evidence pointing to deliberate actions, emphasizing the importance of caution and directing efforts toward discovering the true origins of the fires.
Despite the official statements urging prudence, the online discourse sparked by Winkler’s comments keeps the debate alive. Notably, Andrew Huberman from Stanford University shared a thought-provoking clip within the comments, assuming that certain individuals set these fires on purpose.
People are lighting fires in otherwise non-burning urban areas of LA. Saw this happen first hand at 302 Pico in Santa Monica. Called it in & fire dept & police responded. Stay safe and call in any activity ASAP. We don’t need more flames out here. pic.twitter.com/AZ4GLr6N3q
— Andrew D. Huberman, Ph.D. (@hubermanlab) January 9, 2025
This clip reached over 10 million viewers, gaining the attention of notable figures like Elon Musk, hence amplifying the discussion surrounding Winkler’s claims.
Authorities continue to investigate but have yet to determine the cause of the still-burning blazes, such as the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have been catastrophic for California.
Reflecting on Winkler’s bold assertion, the fire’s human toll is undeniable, with 24 confirmed fatalities. It’s important to consider his perspective and communicate respectfully as investigations proceed. Share your views about these profound events. What do you think about Winkler’s suggestion? Let’s open the floor to opinions by sharing this discussion with others.