Harvey Fierstein, the Tony-winning actor famed for his roles in iconic productions, is turning heads not only for his contributions to the theater but also for his remarkable weight loss. The 70-year-old actor recently opened up about shedding over 100 pounds, attributing this significant change to the weight-loss drug Zepbound.
Fierstein, who is well-remembered for his role alongside Robin Williams in the beloved 1993 film 'Mrs. Doubtfire,' candidly shared his story during an exclusive chat with Page Six. He revealed he ballooned to around 310 pounds during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, leading him to seek effective weight loss solutions.
After beginning treatment with Zepbound, Fierstein experienced rapid weight loss, dropping 120 pounds. While he admitted to gaining back 15 pounds since then, he expressed satisfaction with his current weight, noting he has "sort of stayed at" this level. This fluctuation isn't new for Fierstein; he has battled with his weight throughout his life, recounting, "I’ve been skinny before, that's the sad part. I’ve been skinny, I’ve been fat, I’ve been skinny, I’ve been fat."
What makes this weight loss feel different for Fierstein? He shared, "What’s different is what the drug actually does for you, which is I don’t feel like I’m dieting. I feel like a normal person." This sense of normalcy has transformed the way he enjoys meals, allowing him to dine socially without the overwhelming urge to overindulge. "I can go and have dinner with friends and not have to eat every piece of bread on the table and then not go have ice cream when I’ve done with dinner," he said.
The actor articulated the hardships faced by those who struggle with weight, stating, "People don’t understand being fat is not a choice. It’s something your body is out of whack and this [Zepbound] puts your body in whack." His testimonial highlights the medical nuances of weight loss, seeking not only to inspire but to educate others about his experience.
Fierstein’s story of resilience tied perfectly with his recent philanthropic venture—the inauguration of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab at the Library for the Performing Arts. This performance space, crafted by the renowned designer David Rockwell, was established through Fierstein's generous donation, aiming to nurture the next generation of artists.
"The idea is this room will be free to the public, where you can go in and create or find out if you are a creator. It’s not about producing something, it’s about producing someone," he shared passionately. The lab will also provide access to an incredible catalogue of performances from both Broadway and Off-Broadway, nurturing artistic talent and allowing for creativity to flourish.
Fierstein's focus extends beyond personal weight loss; his desire is to support the arts and help others discover their creative potential. His dedication to both improving his health and fostering artistic expression showcases the multifaceted nature of his life—a blend of personal transformation and public service.
Overall, Harvey Fierstein's story is not just about the pounds lost; it's about embracing change and supporting others through their journeys. With his reflections on body image and health igniting conversations, and his theatre lab inspiring future generations, Fierstein continues to leave his mark both on and off the stage.
