There are literally hundreds of famous individuals who have disproved the theory that being short impedes success. Take a look at some names below of successful musicians, actors and performing artists - all of whom were under 5′5″.

·         At 5′4″, Ludwig van Beethoven made it to the top as a composer in his time. He was famous for being a pianist of great fantasy and spirit, admired in particular for his amazing improvisations.

·         At 5′5″ Phil Collins’ height proved to be no barrier to success. He was a true master in his field, dominating the rock ‘n’ roll and jazz scenes among many other achievements.

·         Danny Devito is an outstanding example of a successful man. Standing at 5′ 0″ the actor turned director has put his name next to leading roles of many big budget hollywood films, going on to producing a few of his own including Pulp Fiction. Not bad for a guy 5 feet tall.

·         At 5′3″, Jermaine Dupri still achieved enormous success as an American record producer and rapper. Starting out as a teenage break-dancer, Dupri founded his own label and became the president and CEO of So So Def Records.

·         ‘Back to the Future’ star Michael J. Fox was 5′4″ tall and became a household name after earning his reputation as a talented actor in his home country of Canada. He eventually moved to Los Angeles where he took advantage of bigger and better acting prospects, despite some hiccups in his success.

·         Pablo Ruiz Picasso was an artist of the early 20^th century whose work remains famous today. Picasso was 5’4”, regarded as a boy genius, he and his art inspired many 20^th century movements.

·         At 5′5″, Dustin Hoffman was a pioneer in Hollywood’s use of average- looking actors. What he lacked in height, he made up for with charisma and explosive presence on set leading to his acquisition of Academy and Best Actor awards.

Being short is clearly no barrier to success, but being taller opens even more doors. Imagine if these

gentlemen had the opportunities we have today to increase their height.