In a heartfelt revelation, Marlee Matlin has opened up about the pivotal role Henry Winkler played in her life during a tumultuous period following her split from actor William Hurt. Featured in her new documentary, “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” Matlin discusses how Winkler’s unwavering support became a beacon of hope and comfort when she needed it most.
Matlin, who won an Academy Award for her role in “Children of a Lesser God,” has long been a prominent advocate for the deaf community. Her relationship with Hurt, which began shortly after their film’s release in 1986, was marked by significant strife. While Matlin acknowledged Hurt’s influence in her life—especially in prompting her to seek help for substance abuse—their relationship took a toll on her mental health, culminating in their eventual separation.
Turning to Winkler, known for his iconic role as “The Fonz” on “Happy Days,” Matlin found a mentor who provided both emotional and practical support. In a recent interview, Matlin reminisced about the ease with which she could approach Winkler during her struggles, referring to him as a person with an “open door” policy—figuratively speaking. “He made it easy for me to reach out to him,” Matlin said, expressing her gratitude for the bond they shared.
Matlin’s documentary explores her rise in Hollywood and highlights the significant emotional battles she faced during her career. It features personal accounts of her experiences with pain, healing, and ultimately, resilience. Winkler has been a source of encouragement, helping Matlin to see her self-worth during a time when she questioned it.
The film goes deep into the complexities of Matlin’s life, including her journey of sobriety. After her split from Hurt, Matlin checked into the Betty Ford Center, an experience that became a turning point for her. She credits Winkler’s persistent belief in her potential as a crucial factor in her recovery journey. “I don’t think I would’ve made it this far without Henry,” Matlin confesses, emphasizing the depth of their friendship.
Their relationship blossomed into something akin to family, with Matlin living with Winkler and his wife, Stacey Weitzman, for two years post-rehab. This arrangement allowed her the time and space necessary to heal, while also fostering a sense of belonging. Winkler humorously recalled Matlin’s initial request to stay for just a weekend, which ultimately turned into an extended stay. He describes the situation fondly, noting, “Two years later, she finally moved out!”
Winkler’s encouragement extended beyond providing shelter. He often offered Matlin life-changing advice, from recognizing what she wanted to affirmations about her self-worth. “If you know what you want without ambivalence, everything else will fall into place,” he advised her. This support not only helped Matlin regain her confidence but also paved the way for her to find love again; she later married Kevin Grandalski in 1993, with Winkler’s home serving as the venue for their wedding.
Reflecting on their long-standing friendship, Matlin expressed, “I feel very fortunate to have had that close relationship with him and his family.” She reiterated how Winkler treated her with kindness, respect, and understanding despite his initial unfamiliarity with deaf culture. “He didn’t know anything about being deaf, but you know what? It didn’t matter to him,” she remarked, appreciating his unconditional support.
In her documentary, Matlin candidly shares her early struggles in the industry and how public scrutiny often compounded her personal challenges. She faced criticism and doubts from the outside world, but her determination to succeed never waned. “I was determined to prove my critics wrong,” she stated. Understanding the importance of advocacy and representation, she hopes her story inspires others, especially those facing similar adversities.
Winkler, reflecting on his early encounters with Matlin, acknowledged her inherent talent even at a young age. He emphasized the importance of mentorship, particularly in an industry that can often overlook those with disabilities. “She will always be part of our lives,” Winkler affirmed, underscoring the enduring nature of their relationship.
Matlin’s journey encapsulates resilience, empowerment, and the significance of mentorship. As she continues to tell her story and advocate for the deaf community, her narrative serves as a reminder that compassion and understanding can create transformative bonds, shaping lives for the better. “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” is set to premiere soon, and it promises to be a powerful exploration of her life, featuring her primary language of American Sign Language. Audiences will likely come away not just informed but also inspired by Matlin’s unwavering spirit and the mentorship she received from Winkler.
In a world where many face personal battles silently, Matlin’s story serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the profound impact of genuine friendship and support. Through her experiences with Winkler and the challenges she has overcome, Matlin exemplifies the importance of seeking help and recognizing the strength in vulnerability.
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