Rhea Perlman might be small in stature, but her legacy in Hollywood is larger-than-life. With unforgettable performances in iconic productions like Cheers, Matilda, and Barbie, Perlman’s career is a testament to her immense talent and charisma. She’s not just an actress—Rhea has also made her mark as an author and entertainer, beloved by all who admire her wit and skill.
But a question that often arises among fans is, how tall is Rhea Perlman? Beyond answering this, we’ll uncover fascinating aspects of her life, career, and family that make her one of Hollywood’s most unique personalities.
Who Is Rhea Perlman?
Rhea Jo Perlman was born on March 31, 1948, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in Bensonhurst in a Polish and Russian Jewish family, Perlman had a natural gift for performance. She pursued drama at Hunter College and landed her first acting role in the theater production Dracula Sabbat.
A Star on the Rise
Perlman’s big break came with her recurring role on the hit TV show Taxi, alongside future husband Danny DeVito. Not long after, she gained universal recognition as Carla Tortelli, the sharp-tongued barmaid on Cheers. Her portrayal earned her four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series during the show’s 11-season run.
She has also appeared in family-favorite films, including her role as the eccentric Mrs. Wormwood in Matilda and most recently as Ruth Handler, the creator of Barbie, in the 2023 blockbuster Barbie.
Accomplished Author
Beyond acting, Rhea Perlman has written a delightful children’s book series called Otto Undercover. These stories showcase the same charm and humor that define her acting roles, proving she’s as talented in writing as she is in entertaining on-screen.
How Tall Is Rhea Perlman?
The question everyone wants to know, right? Rhea Perlman stands at 5 feet tall (1.52 meters), as widely reported.
Interestingly, Perlman has humorously addressed this herself. Fans of Barbie will remember her quipping about being “five-foot nothing” in the movie. Though some sources have previously claimed she is 5’1″, it seems likely this was exaggerated in jest.
Why Her Height Doesn’t Matter
It’s safe to say Rhea Perlman’s petite stature has never been a limitation in her career. She’s built a reputation for playing larger-than-life characters who stand out for their bold personalities and quick wit. Perlman’s presence in Hollywood proves that success isn’t defined by physical stature but by the impact one makes—and she’s made a colossal one.
More Interesting Facts About Rhea Perlman
Family Ties and Personal Life
Perlman’s decades-long relationship with Danny DeVito is one of Hollywood’s most famous partnerships. The two met in the early 1970s, moved in together shortly after, and tied the knot in 1982. Together, they have three children—Lucy, Grace, and Jacob DeVito.
Though the couple separated in 2017, their bond remains strong. They continue to be close friends and co-parents, often publicly supporting one another. Perlman has shared that they have a deeper connection now than in their later years as a married couple.
A Legacy of Family Entertainment
Perlman’s contributions to family-oriented films reflect her passion for creating stories that bring people together. From Matilda to her children’s book series, she has consistently chosen projects that leave a lasting impression on audiences of all ages.
Her work has also included collaborations with her family. Her sister, Heide Perlman, is a successful television writer and producer who has worked on notable series such as Frasier and Cheers. Even her father, Philip Perlman, appeared as an extra in over 30 episodes of Cheers!
Iconic Career Moments
- Cheers: Playing Carla Tortelli, Perlman delivered some of the sharpest, most hilarious lines in TV history. Carla’s fiery personality and endless quips cemented Perlman’s place as a comedy legend.
- Matilda: Perlman brought Mrs. Wormwood to life, perfectly balancing humor and absurdity. The film continues to be a favorite for generations of viewers.
- Barbie (2023): Taking on a more serious tone, Perlman portrayed Ruth Handler, providing one of the movie’s most heartfelt moments.
Fun Trivia About Rhea Perlman
- She has collaborated with her husband, Danny DeVito, on several projects, including Matilda and Taxi.
- Perlman has said she developed her love for storytelling as a child, devouring the Nancy Drew and Cherry Ames book series.
- Her passion for books eventually led her to write the six-book Otto Undercover series, which combines comedy and adventure for younger readers.
- Despite her Hollywood success, she maintains a grounded and approachable personality, prioritizing family and meaningful connections.
Celebrating a Hollywood Icon
Rhea Perlman’s incredible career, versatile roles, and vibrant personal life make her a shining example of resilience and talent in Hollywood. Her petite stature of 5 feet may physically define her, but it’s her enormous contributions to the entertainment industry that truly matter.
Whether it’s her timeless role as Carla in Cheers, her witty performance in Matilda, or her heartfelt portrayal in Barbie, Perlman continues to inspire audiences across the globe.
To learn more about Rhea Perlman’s filmography or explore her children’s books, check out her profiles on platforms like IMDb or Goodreads. And if you have a favorite Rhea Perlman moment or role, share it with us in the comments below!
FAQs
What ethnicity is Rhea Perlman?
Rhea Perlman is of Polish and Russian Jewish descent.
Did Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman have children?
Yes, they have three children together—Lucy, Grace, and Jacob DeVito.
How long were Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman together?
They were together for over 35 years, marrying in 1982 and separating amicably in 2017.
Are Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito still friends?
Yes! They remain close friends and often express admiration for each other in interviews.
