On Golden Pond is a 1981 drama film directed by Mark Rydell from a screenplay written by Ernest Thompson, adapted from his 1979 play. It stars Katharine Hepburn, Henry Fonda, Jane Fonda, Doug McKeon, Dabney Coleman and William Lanteau. In his final film role, Henry Fonda portrays Norman, a crusty, retired professor grappling with many effects of aging. He has been married for many years to upbeat, feisty Ethel but has a remote, difficult relationship with their daughter, Chelsea. At their summer home on Golden Pond, Norman and Ethel agree to care for Billy, the son of Chelsea's new boyfriend, and an unexpected relationship blooms.