Winkler began working his way into the production and direction end of the business. In addition, he tried to use his name and status for the benefit of others, remaining active in charitable and political causes.
In addition to his acting roles, Winkler is a well-accomplished author. In 2003, along with Lin Oliver, he co-authored a series of children's books called 'Hank Zipzer: The Mostly True Confessions of the World's Best Underachiever'. The books are based on his own early struggles with dyslexia.