Kelly Clarkson, host of “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” was moved to tears during a conversation with actor and author Henry Winkler about her daughter’s learning disability.
During the show’s latest episode, Clarkson candidly spoke to Winkler about her 8-year-old daughter River, who has dyslexia, and how she was being bullied at school for not being able to read like the other kids. “She’s dyslexic, and you have told me that you’re dyslexic as well,” Clarkson said to Winkler. “I find it amazing to tell my daughter that you’ve written like 40 books and you’re dyslexic.”
Winkler, who is also dyslexic, offered an empowering message to River, saying, “how you learn has nothing to do with how brilliant you are.” This message touched Clarkson deeply, and she burst into tears, exclaiming “It’s fine, we’re fine, my makeup artist is going to kill me.”
Winkler, who has written several series of children’s books for a range of ages, also offered to give his books to River. Clarkson said that she has already been reading them and that Winkler’s openness about his dyslexia has inspired her daughter.
Clarkson went on to explain how River’s school had done a whole presentation on dyslexia, showing pictures of famous people who are dyslexic, including Winkler, Captain America actor Anthony Mackie, and Shazam actor Zachary Levi. “It really empowered her that ya’ll are so open about it,” said Clarkson.
The emotional moment on the show highlights the impact that positive role models and messages can have on those who struggle with learning disabilities. By sharing their own stories and experiences, Winkler and others like him can help inspire and empower others to overcome their challenges and achieve their dreams.
