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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Ed Easton Jr.

Actor Henry Winkler on Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes: ‘You can’t keep that man down’

The Kansas City Chiefs have a widespread fanbase that continues to grow along with the team’s success. Whether a local supporter or a celebrity, Chiefs Kingdom has earned a reputation for being loyal and engaged in the team’s progress.

During the past few seasons, the Chiefs gained another notable supporter in legendary actor Henry Winkler. The longtime performer is best known for his role in hit comedy films like ‘The Water Boy’ and his iconic role as the Fonz in the 1970s classic “Happy Days.” Winkler made a well-known visit on the field pregame before the Chiefs’ November 20th “Sunday Night Football” matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Winkler’s visit to meet Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes sparked plenty of conversation on Twitter, leading to the 77-year-old actor being praised by tight end Travis Kelce on his podcast. Recently, Winkler spoke with KMBC News in Kansas City, reflecting on his love for Chiefs Kingdom and thoughts on Mahomes’ latest MVP season.

“Like, I was nine years old. The joy.” Winkler said of his moment with Mahomes “And he is going to go down in history as one of the greatest. And I’m just happy to be here in this city. Everybody, can I just say thank you Kansas City?  Because since I have arrived, people have been so unbelievably warm.”

The Chiefs made their triumphant run to winning Super Bowl LVII following the well-known injury suffered by Mahomes earlier in the divisional round.

“Well, they are a great team,” said Winkler. “I mean, you know, there were a lot of injuries, and everybody just stepped up. But Mr. Mahomes, what do you know? My uber driver taking me to my ribs dinner the other night. I had great barbecue. And he said, ‘We would have all bet on the Eagles once Mr. Mahomes was injured.’ And then he came back with a fury. You can’t keep that man down. I really believe that he likes to, ‘Oh, well, I’ll make it difficult for myself, and then I’ll win.'”

Winkler was asked if the Chiefs are a “comeback team” for the way they pulled out late-game victories over the past few seasons, and he didn’t hold back in his stance on the team.

“It doesn’t matter what they are called. They are the best,” said Winkler. “They have the ring. Everybody else is waiting for the ring.”

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