Marlee Matlin is reflecting on the significant role actor Henry Winkler played in her life during a challenging time after her breakup with William Hurt. In an exclusive preview of the upcoming PBS documentary “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” Matlin expresses her gratitude to Winkler for his support, stating, “It wouldn’t have been the same if it weren’t for you.”
Winkler, in an attempt to downplay his influence, reminds Matlin that she already had the innate ability to captivate audiences when they met. He praises her, saying, “You had too much inside of you… That’s already in you, I can’t give that to you. Nobody can give that to you.” Nevertheless, Matlin insists that Winkler’s presence in her life was vital during her recovery process, mentioning the two years she stayed at his home.
With a blend of humor and nostalgia, Winkler recalls the challenges of welcoming Matlin’s visitors while she was living in his home, joking about her messy room and the parade of boyfriends he had to greet. The heartfelt camaraderie between the two shines through as Matlin jokingly recalls Winkler’s preference for taller partners, acknowledging the light-hearted moments they shared.
Matlin became a household name after winning the Academy Award for her role in “Children of a Lesser God.” However, her relationship with Hurt was tumultuous, marked by allegations of physical and sexual abuse that she detailed in her memoir, “I’ll Scream Later.” She credits the experience of seeing Hurt go to rehab as a pivotal moment that inspired her own journey to recovery.
In another poignant moment from the documentary, Matlin reflects on her survival through adversity and the lessons learned from her abusive relationship. She acknowledges that leaving Hurt was a life-changing decision, allowing her to reclaim her life and assert her independence.
Winkler and Matlin’s friendship underscores the importance of support during difficult times, illustrating how compassion can lead to healing. Their bond, which began when Matlin was just 12 years old, has evolved into a deep and lasting connection, further emphasizing the theme of resilience in Matlin’s life.
The documentary “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” is set to premiere on PBS on Tuesday, October 14, at 9 PM ET, promising to offer viewers an intimate look at the actress’s remarkable journey and the power of friendship in overcoming personal struggles.