Henry Winkler, the beloved actor, producer, and director widely known for his iconic portrayal of Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli on Happy Days, has cultivated a romantic life marked by remarkable stability and devotion. Unlike many in the transient world of Hollywood, Winkler's romantic history is predominantly defined by one profound and enduring relationship: his marriage to Stacey Weitzman, a partnership that has spanned over four decades and continues to be a testament to lasting love. Public records and interviews consistently indicate that Winkler did not have any other publicly acknowledged significant romantic relationships prior to meeting his wife.
The story of Henry and Stacey's romance began in 1976, a pivotal year in Winkler's career as Happy Days was in its third season and his fame as "Fonzie" was skyrocketing. They first crossed paths at a clothing store in Beverly Hills, a serendipitous encounter that would change both their lives. Stacey, who was working with a public relations firm that represented the store, was present when Winkler came in to buy a sport coat. According to reports, Winkler was immediately smitten by Stacey, who was described as wearing purple parachute pants and having red hair. He later recounted his initial thought, "Woah, beautiful woman standing in front of me."
Their first date, a trip to the movies, provided an early glimpse into the unique challenges and joys their relationship would entail. Winkler, already a household name, found it difficult to have a private moment, as strangers constantly approached him, eager to interact with "Fonzie." Stacey, who had a four-year-old son, Jed, from a previous marriage to Howard Weitzman, also experienced the immediate impact of Winkler's celebrity. Jed famously greeted Winkler at the door by calling him "Fonz," to which Winkler playfully responded, "My name is Henry. Would you like it if I called you Ralph?" This early interaction highlighted Winkler's immediate embrace of Stacey's existing family.
After a two-year courtship, Henry Winkler and Stacey Weitzman exchanged vows in May 1978 at a synagogue in New York City, the same one where Winkler had his Bar Mitzvah. Their marriage solidified a bond that had already proven resilient against the pressures of fame. Stacey, who had a background in business and public relations, quickly adapted to life alongside a major television star, though she admitted that the constant public attention could be overwhelming. "People would rush up to Henry and literally walk over my feet," she told People in 2001, illustrating the intensity of his celebrity.
Their family grew with the arrival of two children. Their daughter, Zoe Emily Winkler, was born in 1980, followed by their son, Max Daniel Winkler, in 1983. Henry also fully embraced his role as a stepfather to Jed Weitzman, treating him as his own. The family unit became a cornerstone of Winkler's life, providing a private sanctuary amidst his public persona. Stacey largely stepped back from her career to focus on raising their children, ensuring they had as normal an upbringing as possible, while Henry continued his prolific acting career.
Like any long-term relationship, their marriage has faced its share of challenges. One significant hurdle came in the early 2000s when Stacey was diagnosed with breast cancer. Winkler, in his memoir Being Henry: The Fonz…And Beyond, candidly admitted to struggling during this period, feeling "adrift and insecure" and not being as supportive as he wished he had been. "I went to her chemotherapy infusions, but my support consisted of falling asleep in the chair," he revealed, adding, "I was not there. I’m not proud of that." This difficult period, however, ultimately led Winkler to seek therapy, a step that he credits with helping him process childhood traumas and become a more present and supportive partner. Stacey went into remission quickly after her diagnosis.
Despite the ups and downs, the Winklers' marriage has remained remarkably strong. In various interviews, both Henry and Stacey have shared insights into the longevity of their union. Stacey told People in 2019, "The most wonderful thing is to really be able to grow with someone. We’re not the same people we are when we got married. It does take work. There are glitches in the road, and you get a little off kilter, but if you have the ability and the stick-to-itiveness based on love, then your friendship and your relationship only gets better." Henry often echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right partner and navigating life's challenges together.
Their relationship is often cited as a rare example of enduring love in Hollywood. They frequently appear together at events, and their mutual affection and respect are evident. They enjoy shared hobbies, such as fly fishing, and cherish their time with their growing family, which now includes several grandchildren. Henry Winkler's romantic history, though not extensive in terms of multiple partners, is rich in depth and commitment, showcasing a powerful and lasting bond with Stacey Weitzman that has weathered the test of time and fame. Their story is a testament to dedication, growth, and the profound impact of a single, enduring partnership.