The Top 20 Shortest Actresses in Hollywood

The Top 20 Shortest Actresses in Hollywood

I have always been an admirer of the shortest person in any room. As a lifelong fan of movies and TV shows, I was always drawn to short actresses who broke the mold for leading ladies and proved that you don’t have to be tall to make it big. In this article, I will highlight some of the shortest actresses working in Hollywood today. These talented women might be petite, but they show that good things come in small packages. From comedy to drama, horror to romance, these actresses have proven their skills across all genres.

I admire their confidence and ability to hold their own, even alongside much taller costars. Though they occasionally have to stand on apple boxes or do film tricks to appear taller, these actresses have never let their height limit or define them. Their impressive resumes are a testament to the fact that it’s your ability, not your size that matters most in Hollywood. So let’s take a look at some of the standout short actresses who are standing tall in the industry.

The following are the top twenty shortest actresses in Hollywood that you should know:

1. Anna Kendrick – 5’1”

Josh Jensen from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Standing at just five feet, one inch, Anna Kendrick has proven that talent matters most in Hollywood, not height. Her vibrant personality and quick wit shine through in every role she plays. She first caught audiences’ attention as Jessica in the Twilight saga, though her hilarious performance in Pitch Perfect catapulted her to stardom. Since then, Anna has shown her dramatic chops in acclaimed films like Up in the Air and Down in the Valley. This versatile, engaging actress continues to win over fans with her magnetic charm and down-to-earth likeability. Anna Kendrick exemplifies that you don’t have to be tall to stand out on the big screen.

2. Emma Roberts – 5’1”

Joella Marano from Manhattan, NY, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Emma Roberts, who is only above five feet, has demonstrated that she possesses the acting talent necessary to succeed in Hollywood. As Julia Roberts’ niece, Emma hails from a distinguished acting family. Still, she has made her name for herself with notable parts in Nerve, We’re the Millers, and the American Horror Story television series. Her little frame belies her enormous presence and range on screen as she moves with ease between serious, scary, and comedy roles. Emma is a charming and edgy girl next door with a captivating demeanor that lends complexity and subtlety to every role she plays. She keeps showcasing her abilities and gaining hordes of new admirers. Emma Roberts shows aspiring starlets that towering talent does not require towering height.

3. Salma Hayek – 5’1”

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With her beauty, skill, and charisma on screen, the short Salma Hayek has enthralled audiences. When she landed her big break in Desperado, this small-framed Mexican powerhouse made waves in Hollywood. In After Dark Until Dawn and Wild Wild West, she showcased her humorous abilities and romantic side. With her remarkable dramatic performances in movies like Frida, Salma’s star kept rising. Her charisma and adaptability let her shine in any part, whether in an action film, comedy, or drama. Her accomplishments illustrate that being taller has no bearing on your acting prowess since she has established herself as a formidable performer.

4. Hilary Duff – 5’2”

The Heart Truth, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Hilary Duff, another short beauty, has been a fan favorite on screen since her breakout role in the Disney Channel hit Lizzie McGuire. Her lovable personality and girl-next-door charm earned her legions of young fans. Since then, Hilary has starred in films like A Cinderella Story, Cheaper by the Dozen, and The Haunting of Sharon Tate. She has also showcased her singing chops with multi-platinum albums. Throughout her career, Hilary has proven her petite stature will not hinder her from ample opportunities. She continues to entertain audiences with her bubbly on-screen presence and down-to-earth personality. Hilary Duff shows you don’t have to be tall to stand out as a talented triple threat.

5. Ariana Grande – 5’0”

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Standing at just five feet tall, Ariana Grande has already accomplished massive success in the entertainment industry. Though petite in stature, Ariana possesses a powerhouse voice that commands attention on stage. She first gained fame starring in the Nickelodeon show Victorious before transitioning into a chart-topping music career. On-screen, Ariana has proven her comedic chops in shows like Scream Queens and her animated charm as a coach on The Voice. Her small frame disguises her enormous talent and charisma that connects with audiences. Ariana Grande exemplifies how overcoming the odds and believing in yourself can help you stand tall, no matter your size.

6. AnnaSophia Rob – 5’0”

Alyse & Remi from Los Angeles, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

AnnaSophia Robb is a formidable presence on television, even at five feet tall. Her first big break came from her role as Violet in Tim Burton’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory when she was a young star. Her early charisma and aptitude kept drawing in crowds in movies like Bridge to Terabithia and Race to Witch Mountain. AnnaSophia has moved into roles in Mercy Street and The Carrie Diaries as an adult. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated that her tiny size does not preclude her from captivating an audience. AnnaSophia never fails to win over new admirers with her charming demeanor and wide range of performing abilities. She exemplifies that desire is manageable, regardless of one’s stature.

7. Lea Michele – 5’2”

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Lea Michele, a five-foot-two-inch triple threat, has succeeded in theater, cinema, and television. She rose to stardom as Rachel Berry on the popular musical series Glee, where she demonstrated her strong acting and vocal abilities. Then, in the Tony-winning Broadway rock musical Spring Awakening, Lea dazzled critics as Wendla. Despite being shorter than some of her co-stars, Lea’s captivating personality and skill nonetheless steal the show. Lea Michele regularly turns heads with her performances, which range from fantastic singing to dramatic and humorous acting. She demonstrates that your capacity to enthrall audiences is independent of your physical stature.

8. Nicole Richie – 5’1”

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Nicole Richie is a petite dynamo in Hollywood, even though she is only five feet, one inch. The adopted daughter of Lionel Richie rose to stardom on the reality show The Simple Life, winning over viewers with her cheerful demeanor. Nicole’s career includes acting, writing books, and fashion. Despite her diminutive size, she exudes an enormous personality that brings life to whatever project she works on. Nicole can hold her own on screen with taller costars because of her charming demeanor and humorous timing. Women around can be inspired by her distinct style and self-assurance. Nicole Richie is a living example of how success can take many forms and how your interests may propel you to new heights only your ability and drive can.

9. Rachel Bilson – 5’1”

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At just above five feet, Rachel Bilson has captured the hearts of audiences with her acting prowess and girl-next-door charm. Her role as Summer in The O.C.’s popular teen drama initially brought her to prominence. Rachel’s character won over many fans with her natural charm and clever comebacks. She continued to demonstrate her comedic, dramatic, and romantic abilities by starring in series like Chuck and Hart of Dixie. She has given nuance to parts in critically praised big-screen movies like Jumper and New York, I Love You. Despite her diminutive stature, Rachel has a strong presence and likeability in every job. Rachel Bilson, who stands five feet, one inch tall, continues to win over fans with her kindness, and comedy while navigating Hollywood.

10. Kaitlyn Dever – 5’1”

DannyB Photos, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Despite her modest height of five feet, one inch, Kaitlyn Dever has already established herself as a rising star in Hollywood. Despite her little frame, she doesn’t look her age because of how well she inhabits complicated characters. Heartfelt parts in films like Men, Women, & Children followed Kaitlyn’s first-ever attention-grabbing performance in Short Term 12. As the lead actress in Booksmart, she made her debut, receiving praise from critics for her subtle yet humorous performance. She was perfect on television shows like Unbelievable and Justified. With a screen presence that belies her diminutive stature, Kaitlyn exudes brilliance and absolute honesty. As an actress, she embodies a new breed of performers who place more value on connecting with viewers than height.

11. Chandra Wilson – 5’0”

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As Dr. Miranda Bailey on the popular television series Grey’s Anatomy, Chandra Wilson is possibly the tiniest woman in Hollywood at five feet tall. Notwithstanding her diminutive size, critics have praised Chandra for her strong presence and deft acting. In addition to exerting control over the surgical interns, she gives Dr. Bailey a sense of warmth, humor, and empathy. Chandra has fought for more significant opportunities and representation for underrepresented communities off-screen using her platform. She demonstrates that one’s character and output quality, rather than physical attributes like height or beauty, determine one’s level of success. Chandra still defies conventions and breaks down barriers after seventeen seasons, surpassing any constraints society may set.

12. Jennifer Love Hewitt – 5’2”

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Even at just five feet, two inches, Jennifer Love Hewitt has mesmerized audiences since the 1990s with her natural talent and stunning beauty. Jennifer started as a kid star on the Disney Channel before shifting to adolescent favorite status with singles like I Know What You Did Last Summer. With roles in television shows like Ghost Whisperer, Jennifer won viewers with her easygoing charm and stunning appearance. She has established herself as a talented actor with a nuanced emotional range and humorous timing. Although some may view Jennifer’s small stature as a handicap, she has never allowed it to hold her back from accomplishment. Her unwavering work ethic and captivating on-screen persona have allowed her to succeed in acting and directing.

13. Lady Gaga – 5’2”

Carlos M. Vazquez II, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Despite her short stature, Lady Gaga has amassed immense fame in pop culture thanks to her legendary personality and remarkable talent. Lady Gaga changed what was possible for a famous artist with her avant-garde artistry and outrageous fashion sense. Her strong vocals and eye for iconography were on full display in hits like “Poker Face” and “Bad Romance.” She showcased her acting skills on the big screen; winning praise for the role in A Star is Born. Lady Gaga uses her notoriety to support underrepresented groups and give them a voice. Her diminutive stature conceals an immense presence, influence, and vocal range. She inspires admirers worldwide to question norms and overcome obstacles because she breaks down barriers and embodies boundless possibilities.

14. Nicole Polizzi ‘Snooki’ – 4’8”

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Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi is a notoriously small figure in pop culture, being at a mere four feet, eight inches tall, and probably one of the tiniest women on earth. Although Snooki was petite, her prominent personality and signature pouf haircut won over viewers when she first rose to stardom on MTV’s Jersey Shore. Known for her wild partying on reality TV, Snooki went on to demonstrate her maturity, athleticism, and business acumen on programs such as The New Celebrity Apprentice and Dancing with the Stars. Writing self-help books and starting clothing lines for small-framed women, Snooki was a new mother. Despite her height and low beginnings, Snooki defies all expectations and prejudices, serving as an example of how success demands self-assurance, perseverance, and embracing what makes you unique.

15. Reese Witherspoon – 5’1”

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Despite her small height of just above five feet, Reese Witherspoon has a history of powerful big-screen performances. In movies like Election and Legally Blonde, she initially won over fans and reviewers with charm, humor, and intellect. After portraying June Carter Cash in Walk the Line with genuine honesty and unwavering confidence, Reese won an Oscar. She also started a production firm to support larger-scale projects run by women. The vast presence she provides for every job belies her petite stature. Reese is one of the most gifted and driven leading women in Hollywood, as she has shown. She is an example of never letting fear or any obstacle stop you from achieving your dreams because of her unwavering dedication to her craft.

16. Jada Pinkett Smith – 5’0”

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Jada Pinkett Smith, who stands five feet tall, has proven incredibly talented and personable throughout her decades-long career. Jada showed she could hold her own on screen with her breakthrough performance in the film A Different World. She then starred in critically praised movies like Collateral, Set It Off, and the Matrix sequels, putting up a charismatic and self-assured performance in the company of considerably taller performers. She was successful on television in series like Gotham. In addition, Jada leads the metal group Wicked Wisdom. Despite her small size, she can confidently express her views, take charge of her space, and stand tall. Jada symbolizes the opportunities that arise when you accept your qualities and self while rejecting social norms.

17. Lucy Liu – 5’3”

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As one of the shortest ladies in Hollywood, Lucy Liu has performed exceptionally well in parts that highlight her body and emotional depth. She broke through barriers for Asian performers by landing regular roles on Ally McBeal, where she first gained recognition as the fierce Ling Woo. Lucy became a celebrity in popular action movies such as Kill Bill and Charlie’s Angels, demonstrating her formidable martial arts abilities. She excelled in more dramatic turns in projects like Elementary and Set It Up. Lucy’s strength and small stature belie her adaptability and range. She never stops dispelling myths and demonstrating that real success comes from recognizing your abilities rather than trying to fit in with society’s expectations. No matter their height, ambitious artists like Lucy Liu may dream big and succeed.

18. Kristin Chenoweth – 4’11”

Kristin_Chenoweth_-_2012_Drama_League_Benefit_Gala_(1).jpg: Drama League from USAderivative work: Lucas Secret, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here is proof that height is not a barrier to success. Kristin Chenoweth, at just four feet, eleven inches, is living proof that dynamite comes in little packaging. Despite her small size, Kristin has a powerful voice that won her a Tony Award for her Broadway performance as Sally Brown in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. With ease navigating the worlds of theatre, cinema, and television, Kristin excelled in shows like Glee, Wicked, and Pushing Daisies. Her lively personality and upbeat demeanor have garnered admirers in various fields. Kristin is a real example of talent and skill not determined by stature. Her infectious energy and impressive vocal range make her a valuable asset to any production. Kristin Chenoweth encourages you to constantly pursue your aspirations and never judge a book by its cover.

19. Alyssa Milano – 5’2”

HOLLYWOOD, CA: Actress Alyssa Milano arrives at the Premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘New Year’s Eve’ at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Photo taken on Monday, December 5, 2011 by Tom Sorensen, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Even though she is only five feet, two inches, Alyssa Milano has garnered a lot of support from fans since her Who’s the Boss? days. Alyssa was little, but her talent and quirky appeal allowed her to easily step into more mature parts in shows like Mistresses, Charmed, and Melrose Place. Even with taller co-stars, her charisma and comedic timing on screen give her a powerful presence. In addition, Alyssa has acted as a leader in the Me Too movement by using her platform for action. Her diminutive frame conceals a tremendous desire to make a positive impact on the world. Even though Alyssa is short for her height, she makes a strong statement by embracing her gifts and sticking up for her convictions after decades in Hollywood.

20. Vanessa Hudgens – 5’1”

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Even though Vanessa Hudgens is little, she has demonstrated her versatility as a performer on stage and television. Her breakthrough role was Gabriella in the Disney High School Musical series, where she showed her vocal and acting prowess. In subsequent roles, Vanessa received praise from critics for Tick, Tick, Boom, and Spring Breakers. Her diminutive stature belies her immense presence and charisma in every job. Vanessa demonstrated her versatility by appearing in Broadway productions of Rent and Gigi. She never stops taking on challenging roles and putting her creativity and work ethic on display. Vanessa Hudgens is the epitome of overcoming hurdles and pursuing your goals, regardless of life’s challenges.

As this list has shown, some of the biggest names in Hollywood come in small packages. These talented ladies prove that height is just a number and your presence on screen has nothing to do with your stature. These actresses inspire me to stand tall and reach for the stars, no matter what obstacles may stand in my way.