Henry Winkler’s Marriage to Stacey Weitzman: A Love That Stands the Test of Time
How Henry Winkler Met Stacey Weitzman: A Serendipitous Encounter
In 1976, a chance encounter at a Beverly Hills clothing store changed the lives of both Henry Winkler and Stacey Weitzman. Henry, then starring as Fonzie on the hit show Happy Days, walked into the store looking for a sports coat. Little did he know, the woman assisting him would become his life partner. Stacey, who owned a thriving PR firm at the time, was captivated by the actor’s charm, while Henry was immediately drawn to her intelligence and strength. As he later recounted in an interview with People, “I came back the next week to see her, and within 10 minutes, I realized how strong she was.” The couple began dating shortly after, and two years later, they were married in a Manhattan synagogue.
The Wedding: A New Chapter in Their Lives
On May 5, 1978, Henry Winkler and Stacey Weitzman tied the knot. The wedding took place in the same synagogue where Henry had his bar mitzvah, adding a personal touch to the occasion. At the time, Henry’s fame was skyrocketing, and Stacey had to navigate the challenges of being married to one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces. She shared in an interview how she felt overwhelmed at times, saying, “People would rush up to Henry and literally walk over my feet,” but through it all, their love and bond remained strong.
Stacey Weitzman’s Professional Life Before and During Her Marriage
Before meeting Henry Winkler, Stacey Weitzman had already built an impressive career. She earned a degree from the University of Southern California and founded her own public relations firm. Her clients included high-end brands such as Van Cleef & Arpels and Jerry Magnin’s, a prestigious clothing retailer. Even after marrying Henry, Stacey continued her work in the industry, balancing her career with raising their family.
Raising a Blended Family
Stacey and Henry Winkler’s marriage resulted in a strong and supportive family unit. Stacey had a son, Jed, from her previous marriage to entertainment lawyer Howard Weitzman, while she and Henry welcomed two more children—Zoe and Max Winkler. Zoe, born in 1980, grew up to become a nursery school teacher, while Max, born in 1983, followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in directing and producing.
Quotes from Henry Winkler
- “We truly enjoy each other every day,” Henry Winkler said in an interview with People magazine in 2019. “We go to the movies together, fly fish together, and most importantly, we laugh together.”
Stacey Weitzman’s Battle with Breast Cancer
In 2000, Stacey was diagnosed with breast cancer, a challenge that tested the couple’s strength and commitment to one another. With Henry by her side, Stacey fought the disease and went into remission. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in 2007, and she underwent a double mastectomy. Today, she is a survivor, and Henry has publicly expressed his admiration for her resilience. He said in an interview with ABC News, “She is the strongest woman I know, and I am forever in awe of her courage.”
How Henry Winkler Balances Fame and Family Life
Despite his Hollywood success, Henry Winkler has always made family a priority. He often credits Stacey for being his grounding force, helping him navigate the highs and lows of fame. Winkler’s acting career spans decades, from his iconic role as Fonzie on Happy Days to recent Emmy-winning performances on Barry. Through it all, his marriage to Stacey has remained steadfast. “Without her, none of this would be possible,” Winkler has said. The couple also share a deep love for their grandchildren, often spending time with them between Winkler’s acting projects.
Quotes from Stacey Weitzman
- “I am proud of our family. We’ve raised children who are kind and loving,” Stacey shared during an interview with Heavy.
Henry Winkler’s Commitment to Family
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Stacey Weitzman |
| Children | Zoe Winkler, Max Winkler, Jed Weitzman |
| Years Married | 45 years (since 1978) |
| Grandchildren | Five |
What Makes Henry and Stacey Winkler’s Marriage Last?
Henry and Stacey Winkler’s enduring marriage is often attributed to their strong communication and shared interests. They enjoy fly fishing together and frequently spend time outdoors with their family. In an interview, Stacey mentioned that one of their keys to success is therapy and always making time for each other, even amid busy schedules. Henry also values listening and understanding, saying, “You have to be present and aware in a marriage.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Henry Winkler marry Stacey Weitzman?
Henry Winkler married Stacey Weitzman in 1978, two years after they met.
How did Henry Winkler meet Stacey Weitzman?
They met at a Beverly Hills clothing store in 1976, where Stacey was working in PR.
What challenges has Stacey Weitzman faced?
Stacey has twice battled breast cancer and is now a proud survivor.
How many children do Henry Winkler and Stacey Weitzman have?
They have two children together, Zoe and Max, and Stacey’s son Jed from her previous marriage.
References:
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people.com
heavy.com
wikipedia.org
thefamouspeople.com
