Harvey Fierstein

Biography

Harvey Fierstein is a celebrated American actor, playwright, and screenwriter, renowned for his distinctive gravelly voice and trailblazing contributions to theater and film. Born on June 6, 1952, in Brooklyn, New York, he gained prominence with his groundbreaking play Torch Song Trilogy, which won him two Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Actor in a Play. His other notable works include writing the book for the Tony-winning musical La Cage aux Folles and starring as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray, earning another Tony for Best Actor in a Musical. Fierstein also authored the books for Kinky Boots, Newsies, and A Catered Affair. His film credits encompass roles in Mrs. Doubtfire, Independence Day, and voice work in Disney’s Mulan. A pioneering openly gay celebrity, Fierstein has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. In 2025, he was honored with a Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, recognizing his enduring impact on American theater

Known For

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