When you think of Henry Winkler, you probably picture the iconic Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli from Happy Days. But behind the scenes, there's a lot more to this Hollywood legend's life. In the midst of his successful career, Winkler met and married Stacey Weitzman, and together they've built an incredible life that's been full of both triumphs and challenges. Recently, the Emmy-winning actor opened up about the tough times they’ve faced as a couple, especially during Stacey’s battle with breast cancer.
Life with Stacey: The Love Story
Henry Winkler’s life took a beautiful turn when he met Stacey Weitzman. The two tied the knot during his time on Happy Days, and their marriage has stood the test of time for decades. Despite the ups and downs, Winkler has always been upfront about the challenges they’ve faced together. One of the most significant hurdles came when Stacey, now 75, was diagnosed with breast cancer in the early 2000s.
Facing Cancer Together
At the time of Stacey’s diagnosis, Henry, now 77, was just starting his role as Barry Zuckerkorn on Arrested Development. While he was dealing with his own internal struggles, he admitted to feeling somewhat distant during Stacey’s health journey. “I went to her chemotherapy infusions, but my support consisted of falling asleep in the chair,” he recalled in a September 2023 interview with AARP. “I was not there. I’m not proud of that.”
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It’s not easy to be a caregiver, especially when you’re dealing with your own issues. But Henry’s honesty about his experience is a testament to his willingness to grow and evolve as a person. After Stacey was declared cancer-free, Winkler decided to take a deep dive into his own emotional health, seeking therapy to confront unresolved trauma from his childhood and other life events.
Healing and Growth
“I had covered that up with a Chernobyl-like layer of cement and let it sit,” he explained. “I’ve spent years digging in, jackhammering that cement into small pieces.” This journey of self-discovery has undoubtedly strengthened his relationship with Stacey and helped him become a more present and supportive partner.
A Family Man at Heart
Today, Henry and Stacey are proud parents to two children, Max and Zoe, as well as Stacey’s son Jed from her first marriage. They’re also grandparents to several adorable grandchildren, and Henry couldn’t be prouder. “I love being a grandparent,” he gushed to Closer in May 2017. “I thoroughly enjoy myself. We spoil them with love.”
With over 150 acting credits under his belt, Henry Winkler shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. “I have my work and writing,” the Barry actor shared. “When will the switch flip? When will the dial turn me down? I still have the energy.”
Lessons Learned
Throughout his life, Winkler has faced numerous challenges, but he’s always managed to turn them into opportunities for growth. “You never know what is around the corner so just keep your spirit because it all works out,” he told the crowd at the 2019 SAG Awards. “There were times when I had a hard time right after Happy Days for about nine years — I couldn’t really be an actor. So then I became a producer and we did MacGyver. But acting is my first love so you just stay and keep your spirit up!”
Words of Wisdom
As a respected figure in Hollywood, Henry Winkler often shares advice that resonates with fans and colleagues alike. “Don’t think about what you don’t have,” he said. “Embrace and enjoy what’s in front of you.” It’s a philosophy that has guided him through both the highs and lows of his career and personal life.
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