During his iconic role as Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli on "Happy Days," Henry Winkler met and married Stacey Weitzman, a love that has endured for decades. But as the Emmy-winning actor shares, their journey together hasn't always been smooth sailing. In fact, the couple faced some monumental challenges that tested their bond but ultimately strengthened it.
When Life Throws You Curveballs: Stacey's Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Back in the early 2000s, Stacey, now 75, received a life-altering diagnosis—breast cancer. At the same time, Henry, then 77, had just landed a role as Barry Zuckerkorn in the hit series "Arrested Development." While celebrating this professional triumph, Henry found himself grappling with his own internal struggles. In hindsight, he admits to feeling distant during his wife's health journey.
“I went to her chemotherapy infusions, but my support consisted of falling asleep in the chair,” Henry confessed in a candid interview with AARP in September 2023. “I was not there. I’m not proud of that.”
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Henry's Journey of Healing
After Stacey emerged victorious over cancer, Henry made a decision to confront the unresolved traumas from his childhood and other significant life events. He entered therapy, a process he describes as both challenging and transformative.
“I had buried those feelings under a Chernobyl-like layer of cement and let them sit,” he explained. “I’ve spent years digging in, jackhammering that cement into small pieces. It’s been a long but necessary journey.”
A Family United
Today, Henry and Stacey are the proud parents of two children, Max and Zoe, along with Stacey’s son from her first marriage, Jed. They’ve also become grandparents to several delightful grandchildren, a role Henry cherishes deeply.
“Being a grandparent is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Henry gushed to Closer in May 2017. “We spoil them with love. It’s pure joy to watch them grow and thrive.”
With over 150 acting credits to his name, Henry shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. His passion for acting and writing continues to fuel his career.
“I have my work and writing,” the star of "Barry" shared. “When will the switch flip? When will the dial turn me down? I still have the energy. Acting is in my blood.”
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Lessons Learned: Staying Strong Through Adversity
Throughout his life, Henry has faced numerous challenges, but he’s learned to approach them with resilience. Reflecting on his career, he shared some sage advice at the 2019 SAG Awards.
“You never know what’s around the corner, so keep your spirit alive because it all works out,” he told the audience. “There were tough times after 'Happy Days'—about nine years when I struggled to find work as an actor. I turned to producing and worked on 'MacGyver.' But acting is my true love, and you just have to stay strong and keep your spirit high!”
As a respected figure in Hollywood, Henry often shares wisdom that resonates with fans and colleagues alike.
“Don’t dwell on what you don’t have,” he advised. “Instead, embrace and enjoy what’s right in front of you. Life is about appreciating the present moment.”
