The beloved star from “Mrs. Doubtfire,” Harvey Fierstein, has always been open about his fluctuating weight over the years. At his heaviest, he reached around 310 pounds. Recently, however, he surprised fans with a noticeably slimmer figure and shared the story behind his impressive transformation.
In a candid conversation, outspoken and talented, 70-year-old Fierstein revealed how he managed to shed 120 pounds. He accredited his transformation largely to “Zepbound,” a weight-loss medication prescribed to adults. Like many, the COVID-19 lockdown posed its challenges, leading to a significant increase in his weight. But with the aid of this medication, Fierstein was able to manage his weight successfully, although he admitted to regaining about 15 pounds, which he has since maintained.
Reflecting on his ongoing battle with weight fluctuations, Fierstein shared, “I’ve gone from skinny to fat and back again more times than I’d care to count over the years.” Yet, he describes his recent journey as special, largely due to the assistance of the medication, which made the process feel more manageable than any traditional diet ever had.
“For the first time, I feel like a normal person,” he recounted, expressing joy in being able to enjoy a meal with friends without feeling deprived. The medication seemed to address a deeper imbalance, proving effective in helping him maintain control over his appetite and feel full in a way he described as “normal.”
Fierstein stressed that many misconceptions surround weight gain, with some seeing it merely as a matter of choice. However, the reality often lies in complex bodily imbalances, which Fierstein found the medication helped correct.
Fans took notice of Fierstein’s transformation, with many expressing their admiration online. One delighted fan exclaimed, “Losing 120 pounds is no small feat! Kudos to him for his dedication to health and happiness!” Another chimed in simply stating, “Amazing!”
While discussing his weight loss, Fierstein also celebrated the launch of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab at the Library for the Performing Arts. This new space aims to cultivate and support emerging talent in the theater industry.
Launching a Hub for Inspiration
Fierstein is passionate about theater and stressed the importance of the Performing Arts Library’s collection of invaluable scripts, scores, and recordings as a rich source of inspiration. “It’s a treasure trove that drives dreams,” he said, with hopes that the theater lab will be a haven where artists can emerge and thrive.
With a vision for inclusivity and creativity, Fierstein elaborated on the lab, describing it as a room open to the public, encouraging experimentation and artistic discovery. “It’s about creating someone, not just something,” he proudly shared.
A Life of Stories: Fierstein’s Memoir
During the pandemic’s quieter moments, Fierstein found time to pen his autobiography, “I Was Better Last Night: A Memoir,” which was written amid countless Zoom calls. The memoir unveils a tapestry of heartfelt moments, personal struggles, romances, and professional triumphs from his acclaimed career.
According to Fierstein’s official website, his memoir is a balance of wit and vulnerability, reflective of his colorful life as an actor and advocate. It explores the successes and pitfalls that have shaped him, told with a humor and candor that invites readers into his world.
More than just a book, it’s a piece of him, offering wisdom and laughter to anyone who flips its pages, continuing to inspire those following him through his decades-long journey in showbiz.
Fierstein’s story is one of transformation and the strength to pursue dreams, a true testament to resilience and the powerful impact of art in his and many others’ lives.
