The “Mrs. Doubtfire” star, who has experienced fluctuations in his weight over the years, shared that his peak weight reached approximately 310 pounds.
Harvey Fierstein recently debuted a noticeably slimmer figure and opened up about his weight loss journey, sharing how he achieved it and how he feels about his transformation.
A fan comments on the incredible weight transformation of Harvey Fierstein, from a post dated December 23, 2024 | Source: Facebook/FoxNews
In an exclusive conversation with Page Six, the 70-year-old actor and celebrated playwright revealed his use of “Zepbound” to aid his weight loss journey. Zepbound is a prescription medicine that helps adults with weight loss.
Fierstein shared that his weight had climbed significantly during the COVID-19 lockdown, reaching a peak of 310 pounds. After starting the weight loss medication, he shed 120 pounds but mentioned regaining around 15 pounds, which he has since maintained.
Harvey Fierstein attends the Theatre Communications Group 2024 Gala : “Our Stories” at Edison Ballroom in New York City, on March 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Fierstein reflected on his long history of weight fluctuations over the years, “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.”
Still, the actor noted that his recent weight loss feels unique compared to past experiences. He highlighted how the medication played a key role, making the process feel less like traditional dieting and more manageable, thanks to its effects.
Harvey Fierstein on “Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen,” on April 21, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
“I feel like a normal person. 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. I know what it is to be full like a normal person,” the actor divulged.
Fierstein shared that many people misunderstand weight gain, believing it to be a choice, whereas it often results from the body being out of balance. He credited the weight-loss medication for addressing this imbalance and expressed his confidence in its effectiveness.
In online spaces, the actor’s remarkable transformation has left fans amazed and inspired. One fan marveled at the change, “Wow 🤩 that’s quite a transformation for Harvey Fierstein! Losing 120 pounds is a big deal. I hope he keeps getting healthier and happier after the weight loss journey. It’s always inspiring to see people taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle.”
Another chimed in with a simple yet heartfelt comment, “Amazing 🤗.” Someone else celebrated Fierstein’s achievement, “Wow, that’s an incredible transformation! Kudos to Harvey Fierstein for taking charge of his health.” Another fan joined the chorus of praise, adding, “Good for him. He looks great.”
Harvey Fierstein attends the Theatre Communications Group 2024 Gala : “Our Stories” at Edison Ballroom in New York City, on March 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Fierstein shared his weight loss journey while promoting the launch of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab at the Library for the Performing Arts. Designed by David Rockwell and funded by a generous donation from Fierstein, the new performance space is aimed at nurturing emerging talent.
Harvey Fierstein speaks onstage during The 77th Annual Tony Awards at David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City, on June 16, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Fierstein expressed his admiration for the Library for the Performing Arts’ invaluable collection of scripts, scores, programs, and video recordings, describing it as an unmatched source of inspiration for theater enthusiasts.
He added, “My hope is that our theater lab can provide a cocoon where countless artists will develop their dreams into reality so they might one day emerge and take flight. The knowledge that this unique resource will be free to all thrills me endlessly.”
The lab also offers access to the Performing Arts vast collection of Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including a special tribute to his mother with her piano on display.
The actor shared more of his thoughts during this opening, “The idea that in a public library, free to the public it will be this room that 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.”
Fierstein posted a photo on Instagram with his brother, Ronald K. Fierstein, celebrating the opening of their Theater Lab. He captioned the post, “My Bro and I celebrated the opening of our THEATER LAB at the Lincoln Center Performing Arts Library last night. I hope everyone gets to see the miracle that David Rockwell has designed. More than that, I hope the space is used and used and used!!!!”
Apart from talking about this amazing lab, Fierstein also shared that he wrote his autobiography “I Was Better Last Night: A Memoir,” during the pandemic when he was stuck on Zoom calls.
The actor’s official website describes the autobiography as, “A poignant and hilarious memoir from the cultural icon, gay rights activist, and four-time Tony Award-winning actor and playwright, revealing never-before-told stories of his personal struggles and conflict, of sex and romance, and of his fabled career.”
Harvey Fierstein poses at a dinner celebration for the release of his Knopf publishing memoir “I Was Better Last Night” at Cafe Fiorello in New York City, on March 1, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
The website also notes that Fierstein’s memoir is a rich blend of wisdom, humor, and personal stories, offering a candid look at his colorful life. The “Independence Day” actor uses his trademark wit and vulnerability to reflect on his experiences, sharing both the triumphs and mistakes that have shaped him into the person he is today.