Marlee Matlin Reflects on Support from Henry Winkler After Relationship Struggles

Marlee Matlin recently discussed her difficult breakup with William Hart and how she turned to her mentor, Henry Winkler, for support. In a new documentary titled “Marlee Matlin: Not Not Alone,” she shares her experiences in Hollywood and the challenges she faced.

After her tumultuous relationship with Hart, a co-star in “Children of a Lesser God,” Matlin found comfort in Winkler, the “Happy Days” star. In the film, she revealed that her co-stars exhibited “abuse habits.” Hart passed away in 2022 at the age of 71.

During a conversation with Fox News Digital, the 59-year-old Matlin expressed that reaching out to Winkler was never a challenge. “He was always there for me,” she explained through an interpreter. “It felt like an open door to his heart, and he understood that.” Matlin felt lucky to have such a close bond with both Winkler and his wife, saying, “Without Henry in my life, I wouldn’t be here.”

Reflecting on her relationship with Hart, which began when she was 19, Matlin mentioned the pain of urging him to seek help at a rehabilitation center after he struggled with substance abuse. However, upon Hart’s return from rehab, she realized their relationship had irrevocably changed.

“I left that house and never returned,” she shared in the documentary. Winkler extended an invitation to Matlin, offering her a place to stay weekends at his home, which she gladly accepted. They formed a bond, and she felt welcomed as part of the family. “Two years later, I finally moved in!” Winkler laughed, recounting the times he helped Matlin heal.

Matlin eventually found love again, marrying police officer Kevin Grantski in 1993 at Winkler’s home. She acknowledged that Winkler was a critical figure in her healing journey, stating, “He built up my confidence and made me feel safe.” Winkler, recalling their first meeting, noted how he immediately saw her talent and passion.

In her memoir “I Scream Later,” Matlin discussed her past experiences with abuse, highlighting the darker aspects of her relationship with Hart, while revealing that she often felt she couldn’t ask for help during that time. “I didn’t know,” she admitted. Others questioned her decisions, but Matlin emphasized that many people, especially in the deaf community, may not recognize abuse for what it truly is.

Looking back, Matlin feels grateful for the friendships and experiences that shaped her life. “I decided to prove my critics wrong,” she said about her Hollywood aspirations. Her story continues with the release of “Marley Matlin: Not Alone” on June 20.