About
Harvey Fierstein, born Harvey Forbes Fierstein on June 6, 1952, is a prominent American actor, playwright, and screenwriter. He is widely recognized for his distinctive gravelly voice and his significant contributions to theater. Fierstein gained widespread acclaim for his play 'Torch Song Trilogy,' winning Tony Awards for both Best Play and Best Actor in a Play. He has also won Tony Awards for his work in 'La Cage aux Folles' and 'Hairspray'.
Career Timeline
Off-Off-Broadway Beginnings
Starts his career in the Off-Off-Broadway theater scene as a writer and performer.
Torch Song Trilogy Success
His play 'Torch Song Trilogy' gains mainstream recognition and wins Tony Awards.
La Cage aux Folles
Wins another Tony Award for his writing on 'La Cage aux Folles'.
Film and Television Roles
Appears in various film and television roles, expanding his career beyond theater.
Hairspray
Wins a Tony for Hairspray
Continued Theater Work
Continues to write and perform in theater productions, maintaining his presence in the industry.
TV and Voice Work
Does a lot of television and voice acting, expanding his income.
Theater Legend
Remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry, celebrated for his contributions to theater and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 25, 2026