Henry Winkler’s New Show: Hazardous History Explores Past Dangers

In a captivating new series titled Hazardous History with Henry Winkler, the beloved actor takes audiences on a journey to explore the often dangerous and bizarre objects and ideas that once shaped our lives. The show, premiering on June 15 at 10 PM ET/PT on HISTORY, promises a mix of nostalgia and the absurdities of yesteryear.

Henry Winkler, famously known for his role in “Happy Days,” hosts this intriguing eight-part series. Winkler describes the intent behind the show, noting, “It is fascinating that all this imagination was put out into the world, and then the world realized, ‘Wait a minute. We’re not taking care of our population. We’re not taking care of the kids.’” The series aims to highlight just how unregulated and hazardous many popular items were throughout history.

Unraveling Unthinkable Past Products

The stories Winkler uncovers are often shocking yet riveting. Viewers are reminded of the numerous hazardous products that became household names despite their dangers. For instance, he discusses how early refrigerators used toxic gases and had latches that could trap children inside. Moreover, he touches on the insanity that was the X-ray fitting for shoes in stores, emphasizing just how poorly we understood safety at the time.

Did you know tobacco companies once used doctors in advertisements?
Radium was added to cosmetics and toothpaste, posing serious health risks.
Lead was once an ingredient in paint and gasoline.
Children’s chemistry sets contained toxic substances and alcohol lamps.
Metal-spiked lawn darts turned out to be deadly.
Asbestos was used in holiday decorations, disguised as fake snow.

One of Winkler’s favorite stories involves the launch of 7UP in 1929, touted as a refreshing soda that could help with stress, only to reveal later that it was laced with lithium. Winkler vividly illustrates the humorous yet alarming scenario: “You had a lot of people after lunch, as they had 7UP with their tuna sandwich, lying on the floor.”

Learning from Mistakes: Hazardous History’s Lessons

This show goes beyond just entertainment; it serves as an eye-opener for audiences. Winkler notes that these reflections cause people to respond, “Oh, wow,” as they grapple with the reckless nature of past products. From wildly hazardous toys to surprisingly toxic household items, he instills the realization that market caution was seriously overlooked.

“When I bring up one of these examples, everybody’s reaction is the same: ‘Oh, wow,’” Winkler says. His humorous storytelling underscores a serious message about how far safety standards have come. Winkler balances the hilarity of the absurdities with a reflective tone, encouraging viewers to appreciate the progression in the regulations of consumer products and the importance of safety today.

Winkler’s Continued Influence and Engagement

Henry Winkler continues to be a vital force in television and film, engaging audiences not only with his nostalgia-inducing roles but also with poignant commentary on the past. His mission to shine light on hazardous history resonates deeply in today’s world, serving as both a reminder and a lesson. Winkler stands as a testament to how the entertainment industry can combine education with storytelling, captivating generations young and old.

The show “Hazardous History” not only offers a trip down memory lane but also illustrates our collective growth in understanding and prioritizing safety and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Hazardous History with Henry Winkler” about?

The show explores dangerous and bizarre products and ideas from the past, revealing how they were once considered normal despite their hazards.

When does the show premiere?

“Hazardous History” premieres on June 15 at 10 PM ET/PT on the HISTORY network.

Who is Henry Winkler?

Henry Winkler is a celebrated actor best known for his role as “The Fonz” in the classic TV series “Happy Days.” He has had a long and diverse career in film and television.

What types of products does the show discuss?

The show covers a variety of dangerous items, including toxic toys, food products, and household items used in the past.

How does Henry Winkler approach these historical topics?

With a mix of humor and seriousness, Winkler encourages viewers to reflect on the past while appreciating improvements in safety standards today.