Nostalgic '90s movie lovers fondly remember Harvey Fierstein for his role as Uncle Frank Hillard in the classic film, Mrs. Doubtfire. The Tony Award-winning actor, author, and playwright has recently shared details about his lifelong health journey, including his struggles with fluctuating weight. In a 2024 interview with Page Six, Fierstein revealed that he reached his highest weight, "around 310 pounds," during the pandemic lockdown.
Weight Fluctuations and the Pandemic
Fierstein admitted that his weight has fluctuated over the years. The pandemic exacerbated the issue, as he, like many others, found himself leading a more sedentary lifestyle. "I existed on the screen of my Zoom," he said, referring to his increased screen time during the lockdown. This period led to significant weight gain, pushing him to take action.
Turning to Zepbound
After years of struggling with weight fluctuations, Fierstein eventually turned to Zepbound, an injectable medication used to treat excess body weight. Zepbound contains tirzepatide, a GLP-1, which mimics hormones involved in blood sugar control and appetite. Tirzepatide also works on the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. This dual-action sets it apart from semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, which only targets one hormonal receptor. Michael Russo, M.D., a board-certified bariatric surgeon, explained that "the benefit is increased weight loss" due to tirzepatide targeting two hormonal receptors instead of one.
A New Perspective on Weight Loss
Fierstein shared that Zepbound has made him feel like he can live a regular life rather than being bound to a strict eating plan. "What’s different is what the drug actually does for you, which is I don’t feel like I’m dieting," Fierstein said. "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 not then go have ice cream when I’m done with dinner." He emphasized that this experience is unlike any other time he's lost weight. "I know what it is to be full like a normal person," Fierstein said.
Understanding the Science Behind Hunger and Fullness
Dr. Cynthia Odogwu, a family and lifestyle medicine physician, explains the science behind weight loss medications like Zepbound. “The brain has a system that sends signals for when a person is full and for when a person is hungry,” says Dr. Odogwu. “When this signaling system isn’t working properly, a person may have trouble feeling full." Zepbound helps regulate this system, making it easier for individuals to manage their appetite and food intake.
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The Importance of Lifestyle Changes
Dr. Odogwu emphasizes that Zepbound works best when combined with lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise. These changes are crucial for long-term success and overall well-being. She also advises caution for people over 60 considering the medication, as appetite decreases with age. "Appetite decreases as we age, and because Zepbound works to lower appetite, it will be important for people [over] age 60 to have a plan to maintain adequate food intake before starting the medication," says Dr. Odogwu.
Furthermore, Dr. Odogwu notes that weight loss medications like Zepbound may need to be taken for life, similar to medications for blood pressure or diabetes.
Fierstein's Success and Advocacy
By regulating his appetite with Zepbound, Fierstein said he was able to lose 120 pounds. After losing 120 pounds, Fierstein told Page Six he "put 15 back on, which I’ve sort of stayed at that." The actor is now a "great believer" in weight loss medication, shifting his thinking about how it can help people. "People don’t understand that being fat is not a choice," Fierstein added. "It’s something that your body is out of whack and this puts your body in whack."
"Mrs. Doubtfire" and Beyond
Fierstein is best known for playing Frank Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire. The movie, based on Anne Fine’s 1987 novel Alias Madame Doubtfire, follows Daniel Hillard (Robin Williams), whose wife, Miranda (Sally Field), files for divorce. To spend more time with his kids, Daniel poses as elderly British nanny Mrs. Doubtfire. Fierstein’s character, Frank, helped him create the Mrs. Doubtfire costume.
Fierstein has since starred in films and shows including Independence Day, How I Met Your Mother, Nurse Jackie, and Bros. He also recently opened the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab at the Library for the Performing Arts. The avid quilter is proud that the lab is open free to the public. “The idea that in a public library, free to the public it will be this room that you can go in and create,” he shared. “Or find out if you are a creator."
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Years later, Williams died by suicide in 2014 at the age of 63. Before his death, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease with early symptoms beginning in 2013. “We lost this precious jewel 5 years ago,” Fierstein wrote via Instagram in 2019.
The Broader Context of Weight Loss Medications
Fierstein's story highlights the growing use of weight loss medications like Zepbound. However, it's important to note that these medications are not a magic bullet and may not work for everyone. Tracy Morgan, for example, claimed he "out-ate Ozempic" and gained 40 pounds while taking the medication.
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