Home / Arts and Entertainment / Scream Stuntman Shares Tricks Learned from Henry Winkler on Set
Scream Stuntman Shares Tricks Learned from Henry Winkler on Set
27 Sep, 2025
Summary
- Stuntman Lee Waddell recalls working with Henry Winkler on Scream
- Winkler taught Waddell a trick to get into the Ghostface character
- Waddell had to "gut" Winkler's character, the doomed Principal Himbry
In a recent interview, Lee Waddell, the stuntman who donned the Ghostface mask and cloak for the debut 1996 Scream film, revealed some behind-the-scenes secrets from the set. Waddell, who played the franchise's first victim, Principal Arthur Himbry, recalled his experience working with acting legend Henry Winkler.
Waddell admitted that he was a huge "fanboy" of Winkler, best known for his role as The Fonz on Happy Days. When it came time to film the scene where Waddell's Ghostface character had to "gut" Winkler's Himbry, the stuntman was so starstruck that he wasn't giving Winkler the right energy to react properly.
That's when Winkler stepped in and taught Waddell a trick that would stay with him for the rest of his career. Winkler started "screwing with" Waddell, getting in his face and threatening to suspend him as the principal. This triggered Waddell to tap into his Ghostface persona, and he was able to deliver the perfect take, gutting Winkler's character with the necessary intensity.
Waddell credits Winkler's guidance for helping him overcome his initial nerves and truly embody the Ghostface killer on screen. The stuntman's behind-the-scenes story offers a unique glimpse into the making of the iconic Scream franchise.
