When people hear the name Henry Winkler, they often think of “The Fonz” — the cool guy from Happy Days. But behind that famous smile is a strong and loving woman named Stacey Weitzman.
Stacey isn’t just Henry’s wife. She’s a brave cancer survivor, a smart businesswoman, a caring mother, and a quiet hero in Hollywood. Her story is filled with love, strength, and kindness. Today, we’re going to explore her amazing journey — from her early career to how she met Henry, built a family, and faced cancer head-on.
Let’s get to know the real Stacey Weitzman — a woman who’s so much more than just “the wife of a star.”
Stacey Weitzman Quick Bio
| Full Name | Stacey Weitzman (born Stacey Furstman) |
| Birth Year | 1947 |
| Age (2026) | 78 years old |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Profession | Public Relations Specialist, Philanthropist |
| Known For | Wife of Henry Winkler |
| Spouse | Henry Winkler (married 1978) |
| Children | Jed Weitzman, Zoe Winkler, Max Winkler |
| Grandchildren | 6 (as of 2026) |
| Net Worth | Around $1 million (estimated) |
| Education | University of Southern California (USC) |
| Health | Two‑time breast cancer survivor |
| Residence (2026) | Los Angeles, California |
Who Is Stacey Weitzman?
Stacey Weitzman is known for being the longtime wife of actor Henry Winkler, but she’s also had a meaningful life and career of her own.
She worked in public relations and handled top fashion clients. She raised a blended family of three children. And she survived breast cancer not once — but twice. Along the way, she helped build a charity that changed the lives of thousands of kids.
Today, Stacey is living a peaceful life in Los Angeles, spending time with her grandchildren and continuing her quiet work for good causes.
Stacey Weitzman’s Early Life and Education
Stacey Weitzman (born Stacey Furstman) grew up in Los Angeles. She was raised in a typical American family and had big dreams from a young age.
She studied fashion and communications at the University of Southern California (USC). Like many young women in the 1960s and ‘70s, Stacey wanted to make a name for herself — and she did.
Her early education helped shape her love for design, media, and storytelling, which later became a big part of her career.
Stacey Weitzman’s Career in Public Relations
Before becoming part of one of Hollywood’s most admired couples, Stacey was already making waves in the business world.
She opened her own public relations firm after graduating from USC. She didn’t just work small jobs — she handled big-name clients like:
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Van Cleef & Arpels (luxury jewelry)
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Jag Jeans
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Jerry Magnin’s (a stylish Beverly Hills clothing store)
She had the skills, the network, and the confidence to run her own company. Even after she married Henry, Stacey stayed involved in her work — balancing career and family life with strength and grace.
How Stacey Weitzman Met Henry Winkler
It was 1976. Henry Winkler had become a household name thanks to Happy Days. One day, he walked into Jerry Magnin’s clothing store in Beverly Hills, looking for a sport coat.
That’s where he met Stacey.
She wasn’t dressed like someone trying to impress a celebrity. She wore purple parachute pants and had bright red hair. Henry noticed her right away. He later said, “I thought, ‘Wow, beautiful woman.’”
At first, nothing happened. But a week later, Henry came back — this time, not for a coat, but to see Stacey again. He asked her out, and they went across the street for ginger ales. No fancy dinner. Just two people talking, laughing, and starting something real.
That one soda date turned into a lifelong love story.
Stacey Weitzman and Henry Winkler’s Wedding in 1978
After dating for two years, Stacey and Henry got married in 1978. The wedding was held in a synagogue in New York City, far from Hollywood’s lights.
Their love was strong, but being married to a TV star came with challenges. Stacey often said that fans would rush past her just to reach Henry. One woman even stepped on her stockings and didn’t apologize. Instead, she just said, “But I love Fonzie!”
Still, Stacey stayed calm and graceful through it all. She learned how to keep her marriage private while still supporting her husband’s success in public.
Stacey Weitzman’s Blended Family and Children
Stacey was already a mom when she met Henry. Her son Jed was 4 years old at the time. But Henry didn’t back away — he welcomed Jed with love.
They later had two children together:
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Zoe Winkler, born in 1980
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Max Winkler, born in 1983
Raising a blended family isn’t always easy, but Stacey made it work. She built a home full of care, fairness, and respect. Henry once said that Stacey helped keep the family strong even when his career got hectic.
Today, their children are grown, successful, and kind — a clear sign of Stacey’s guidance and love.
Stacey Weitzman’s Battle with Breast Cancer
In the early 2000s, Stacey’s world changed. She was diagnosed with breast cancer.
She went through chemotherapy, surgeries, and later, a double mastectomy when the cancer came back. Her journey wasn’t easy, but she never gave up.
Henry later admitted that during those early treatments, he didn’t always know how to be there for her. He was scared and sometimes shut down emotionally. But Stacey told him what she needed — and he listened. With time and therapy, they grew even closer.
Stacey became a two-time survivor, and her courage inspired many, including her own husband.’
How Stacey Weitzman Helped Henry Grow as a Husband
When Stacey Weitzman was fighting breast cancer, her husband, Henry Winkler, didn’t know how to help at first. He has said in interviews that he felt lost. He went with her to treatments, but sometimes, he would sit next to her and fall asleep. He was scared and didn’t know what to do.
But Stacey didn’t stay silent. She told Henry she needed him to be fully present — to really be there with her, not just in the room. Henry listened. He started going to therapy and worked hard to become a better partner.
Thanks to Stacey’s honesty and strength, their marriage grew stronger. Henry became more supportive, and together they rebuilt their bond with love and care.
Stacey Weitzman and the Children’s Action Network
Stacey Weitzman didn’t stop at helping her own family. She wanted to help other children too.
In 1990, Stacey and Henry co-founded the Children’s Action Network. They worked with other big names in Hollywood, like Steven Spielberg and his wife, to help foster children across the country.
The group gave free vaccines to kids and helped raise awareness about adoption. One of their biggest projects was the Heart Gallery, a photo exhibit showing real children in foster care who needed homes. This helped many children find loving families.
Stacey used her PR skills to bring attention to these causes, and her heart to keep them going. She worked quietly but made a big difference.
Stacey Weitzman’s Special Bond with Marlee Matlin
One of the most touching parts of Stacey Weitzman’s story is her friendship with Marlee Matlin.
Marlee was a young actress struggling with addiction. She had nowhere to go. So Stacey and Henry opened their home to her. Marlee lived with them for almost three years.
Stacey supported her through recovery and gave her a safe space to heal. Marlee has said that Stacey and Henry were like a second family. She even got married in their backyard.
This wasn’t for the cameras or headlines. Stacey did it because she cared. That’s the kind of person she is.
The Secret to Stacey Weitzman’s Long Marriage
Many people wonder how Stacey Weitzman and Henry Winkler have stayed together for nearly 50 years — especially in Hollywood, where marriages often don’t last.
Stacey says the secret is growing together. She believes people change over time, and you have to let your partner grow. She and Henry are not the same people they were when they first met. And that’s okay.
They also give each other space. Henry loves fly fishing, and sometimes he goes alone. Stacey stays home and enjoys time with friends or family. But they always come back to each other — stronger than before.
They also enjoy simple things together, like movies, dinners, and time with their grandkids. That’s what keeps their love strong.
Stacey Weitzman’s Life Today in 2026
Today, Stacey Weitzman lives in Los Angeles with Henry. They have been in the same house for years. It’s filled with family photos, memories, and love.
She enjoys being a grandmother to six grandchildren. She spends time with them, plays, and gives them treats. Stacey has said that being a grandparent is one of the best parts of her life.
She still supports charity work, stays active in her community, and sometimes attends events with Henry. But most of all, she enjoys the quiet joy of family — the reward of all the love and work she has given over the years.
Is Stacey Weitzman Related to Stuart Weitzman?
Many people wonder if Stacey Weitzman is related to the famous shoe designer Stuart Weitzman. The answer is no — they are not related.
Stacey’s maiden name was Furstman. She became “Weitzman” after marrying her first husband, Howard Weitzman, a lawyer. Even after that marriage ended, she kept the name.
It’s just a name coincidence. But yes, she probably does own a few stylish shoes!
Final Thoughts
So, who is Stacey Weitzman?
She is a woman who has lived with love, strength, and purpose. She built a career in public relations, raised a beautiful blended family, survived cancer twice, and helped children in need through her charity work. She supported Henry Winkler not just as a wife — but as a true life partner.
Even though she stayed out of the spotlight, her actions spoke louder than any fame. She helped shape one of Hollywood’s happiest love stories and showed what it means to be brave, kind, and real.
Today, Stacey Weitzman continues to inspire others simply by being herself — calm, strong, and full of heart.
(FAQs)
Did Stacey Weitzman ever act in movies or TV shows?
Yes — but very few! She appeared in the movie Safe and voiced a small role in As Told by Ginger. Most people don’t know she ever acted!
What is Stacey Weitzman’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $1 million, mostly from her PR career. She lived privately and built her own success long before marrying Henry Winkler.
How old is Stacey Weitzman, and when is her birthday?
Stacey was born in 1947, making her 78 years old in 2026. Her exact birthday isn’t widely known, which surprises many fans.
How tall is Stacey Weitzman?
Stacey Weitzman’s height is about 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) — taller than many expect when standing next to Henry Winkler!
Who are Stacey Weitzman’s parents?
Very little is publicly known about Stacey Weitzman’s parents. She has kept that part of her life very private, even after decades in the spotlight.
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