Clark Gable's Height
6ft ½ in (184.2 cm)
American best remembered for films such as Gone with the Wind, It Happened One Night, Mutiny on the Bounty, Boom Town, Mogambo, The Tall Men, Command Decision, Saratoga and The Misfits. At the time he was regularly called 'Tall, dark and handsome' and 6ft 1, 195 pounds.
Publicity Photo via Wikimedia Commons
When I came to town 25 years ago my six feet, two inches were considered pretty high up. But year by year they keep coming in - taller and taller. Today, it would appear than an actor under six feet is virtually a runt. - Clark Gable (June 24, 1955)
Gable's own claim at age 41 (6ft 1, 200 pounds)
Gable's Physical Measurements in Army
6ft 1/2 inch, 6ft 1/4 inch
6ft 1/2 inch, 6ft 1/4 inch
You May Be Interested
Vivien Leigh
5ft 3 (160 cm)
5ft 3 (160 cm)
Gary Cooper
6ft 3 (191 cm)
6ft 3 (191 cm)
Cary Grant
6ft 1 (185 cm)
6ft 1 (185 cm)
Joan Crawford
5ft 4 (163 cm)
5ft 4 (163 cm)
Add a Comment246 comments
Average Guess (78 Votes)
6ft 0.09in (183.1cm)
6ft 0.09in (183.1cm)
RoyzDaBoi said on 2/May/23
@Arch Stanton Fair enough, the grandson kinda had that Superman look about him. Biggish guy, looked at least 6'2 maybe more.
@Arch Stanton Fair enough, the grandson kinda had that Superman look about him. Biggish guy, looked at least 6'2 maybe more.
Arch Stanton said on 15/Apr/23
I don't think Clark's son or grandson looked like him, though the grandson was closer to Clark's colouring than Clark's son was. They certainly didn't inherit his ears. But there's obviously a handsome gene there. No idea how tall they were.
I don't think Clark's son or grandson looked like him, though the grandson was closer to Clark's colouring than Clark's son was. They certainly didn't inherit his ears. But there's obviously a handsome gene there. No idea how tall they were.
RoyzDaBoi said on 13/Apr/23
How tall was his grandson Clark Gable the third who sadly passed away way too young a few years back? He presented that show 'Cheaters' for a while after Joey Greco left. He looked a lot like his Grandad if you compare photos, very classically handsome. Clark III looked a few inches bigger than 6'0 to me, but I don't really know. I'd guess 6'3, he was tall and quite stocky.
How tall was his grandson Clark Gable the third who sadly passed away way too young a few years back? He presented that show 'Cheaters' for a while after Joey Greco left. He looked a lot like his Grandad if you compare photos, very classically handsome. Clark III looked a few inches bigger than 6'0 to me, but I don't really know. I'd guess 6'3, he was tall and quite stocky.
Gerald S said on 12/Apr/23
I’d vote 6’0.25” for Gable’s peak.
As much as 6’0.5” is arguable, always more 6’0” than 6’1” in my opinion. 6’3” James Stewart had a good 7cm on Gable at least.
I’d vote 6’0.25” for Gable’s peak.
As much as 6’0.5” is arguable, always more 6’0” than 6’1” in my opinion. 6’3” James Stewart had a good 7cm on Gable at least.
Jake: 1.84 m - 1.85 m said on 9/Apr/23
How about a page for renowned character actor Brad Dexter, Rob? Did mention him on another page too. He was a co-star of Gable in RUN SILENT, RUN DEEP and was one of the mains in THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN. He looked similar range to Gable maybe? He gets 184 - 188 cm listings. Would value your thoughts!
How about a page for renowned character actor Brad Dexter, Rob? Did mention him on another page too. He was a co-star of Gable in RUN SILENT, RUN DEEP and was one of the mains in THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN. He looked similar range to Gable maybe? He gets 184 - 188 cm listings. Would value your thoughts!
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 16/Mar/23
Arch, the last 5 years of his life his weight gain was noticeable. I read 230lbs which may well have been the case
Arch, the last 5 years of his life his weight gain was noticeable. I read 230lbs which may well have been the case
Arch Stanton said on 10/Mar/23
In The Tall Men he looked trim in that and quite thin in the face, wouldn't have guessed him over 200 pounds, that was 1955.
In The Tall Men he looked trim in that and quite thin in the face, wouldn't have guessed him over 200 pounds, that was 1955.
Arch Stanton said on 8/Mar/23
I wouldn't have thought 15-16 stone in Teacher's Pet and The Misfits Rampage. One of my favourite 50s films Teacher's Pet. I'll have to rewatch soon and I'll see then, you're probably right.
I wouldn't have thought 15-16 stone in Teacher's Pet and The Misfits Rampage. One of my favourite 50s films Teacher's Pet. I'll have to rewatch soon and I'll see then, you're probably right.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 6/Mar/23
Arch, look at him in his last films, he was noticeably heavier. Rumour is he got up to 230lbs at one point after gaining a fondness for local cuisine while making It Happened In Naples in Italy. I’d say 215lbs is an understatement. A prime, in-shape Gable was 195-200lbs. Trim but naturally broad-shouldered, narrow waist. The original V-taper if you will
Arch, look at him in his last films, he was noticeably heavier. Rumour is he got up to 230lbs at one point after gaining a fondness for local cuisine while making It Happened In Naples in Italy. I’d say 215lbs is an understatement. A prime, in-shape Gable was 195-200lbs. Trim but naturally broad-shouldered, narrow waist. The original V-taper if you will
Arch Stanton said on 4/Mar/23
Spot on Rampage on Tate, "projecting an illusion of alpha maleness", not the real deal..
The 200 pounds for Gable seems accurate. I can't ever remember him looking 215.
Spot on Rampage on Tate, "projecting an illusion of alpha maleness", not the real deal..
The 200 pounds for Gable seems accurate. I can't ever remember him looking 215.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 2/Mar/23
Rory, today we got guys who try to bottle up what Gable had and the result is just man-babies like Andrew Tate, the Hodge Twins and Elliott Hulse. Addicted to social media with an incessant need to show the world how alpha they are. It’s caught on obviously and they’ve got massive followings but make no mistake, what they’re selling is the complete opposite of masculinity and they attract the lowest common-denominator. Gable, Cooper, Heston and that generation of men from the 30’s through to the 60’s had mystique and self-preservation. They saved it all for the big screen and it’s why they were so powerful. I’m sure there still are men like that out in the world but they’re few and far between…
Rory, today we got guys who try to bottle up what Gable had and the result is just man-babies like Andrew Tate, the Hodge Twins and Elliott Hulse. Addicted to social media with an incessant need to show the world how alpha they are. It’s caught on obviously and they’ve got massive followings but make no mistake, what they’re selling is the complete opposite of masculinity and they attract the lowest common-denominator. Gable, Cooper, Heston and that generation of men from the 30’s through to the 60’s had mystique and self-preservation. They saved it all for the big screen and it’s why they were so powerful. I’m sure there still are men like that out in the world but they’re few and far between…
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 2/Mar/23
Rory, we’ve got guys nowadays who try to bottle up what Gable and Cooper had and the result unfortunately is just an infestation of wannabes like Andrew Tate who are just projecting an illusion of alpha manliness. They’re addicted to social media, have meltdowns when they lose followers. What was so alluring about a guy like Gable was the mystique he maintained…that generation is untouchable ….Tate or Hodge Twins look like parodies beside Clark Gable
Rory, we’ve got guys nowadays who try to bottle up what Gable and Cooper had and the result unfortunately is just an infestation of wannabes like Andrew Tate who are just projecting an illusion of alpha manliness. They’re addicted to social media, have meltdowns when they lose followers. What was so alluring about a guy like Gable was the mystique he maintained…that generation is untouchable ….Tate or Hodge Twins look like parodies beside Clark Gable
Rory said on 22/Feb/23
I think back in the 1940s/50s the emphasis was on leading men being masculine,tall and strong so being a 6ft+ actor was desirable. Traditional masculinity isn't as desirable in the industry today though, so anyone can have a crack regardless of height.
I think back in the 1940s/50s the emphasis was on leading men being masculine,tall and strong so being a 6ft+ actor was desirable. Traditional masculinity isn't as desirable in the industry today though, so anyone can have a crack regardless of height.
Malcolm Oliver said on 15/Jan/23
Interesting how he claimed actors kept getting taller with each generation, when now it appears to be vice versa that. Maybe in tune to the times then, but certainly not all the way true now.
Interesting how he claimed actors kept getting taller with each generation, when now it appears to be vice versa that. Maybe in tune to the times then, but certainly not all the way true now.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 30/Jun/22
Looks a strong 6ft1/weak 6ft2 in this photo w/h Cooper and has less shoe!
Click Here
Looks a strong 6ft1/weak 6ft2 in this photo w/h Cooper and has less shoe!
Click Here
Tech noir said on 1/May/22
6-0.25. Never 6-2.
6-0.25. Never 6-2.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 31/Mar/22
Here's a rare gem. Color footage taken of Clark Gable and Gary Cooper in 1948 strolling through West Hollywood. Those interested in the golden age of Hollywood will get a kick out of this, it's like a time machine.
Click Here
I think Clark passes for 6ft1 here
Here's a rare gem. Color footage taken of Clark Gable and Gary Cooper in 1948 strolling through West Hollywood. Those interested in the golden age of Hollywood will get a kick out of this, it's like a time machine.
Click Here
I think Clark passes for 6ft1 here
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 2/Feb/22
I still think an in-shape Gable could have been a weak 6ft1 and 6ft2 in shoes.
I still think an in-shape Gable could have been a weak 6ft1 and 6ft2 in shoes.
Pete Mulholland said on 31/Aug/21
Here is a photo of Gable with other stars of the period - Taylor, Montgomery, Powell, etc. Looks like Robert Taylor edges Gable out in height slightly... Click Here
Here is a photo of Gable with other stars of the period - Taylor, Montgomery, Powell, etc. Looks like Robert Taylor edges Gable out in height slightly... Click Here
Get Shorty said on 5/Aug/21
I used to visit LA frequently on business in the 1990s. A friend there who was a film historian put Clark Gables’ height at 5’11”. However he told me that Gable when off screen usually wore cowboy boots and a cowboy hat, and looked huge as a result.
I used to visit LA frequently on business in the 1990s. A friend there who was a film historian put Clark Gables’ height at 5’11”. However he told me that Gable when off screen usually wore cowboy boots and a cowboy hat, and looked huge as a result.
Pete Mulholland said on 9/Feb/21
Interesting military records showing Gable's first name as "Clark" and no middle name. Actually, Gable's first name was "William" and his middle name was "Clark".
Interesting military records showing Gable's first name as "Clark" and no middle name. Actually, Gable's first name was "William" and his middle name was "Clark".
Miss Sandy Cowell said on 2/Feb/21
Clark Gable was born 120 years ago yesterday.
He died at just 59, having had a heart attack. It is believed a second heart attack took his life.
6ft0.5.
RIP Clark XX 🕯️
1st February 1901 - 16th November 1960
Clark Gable was born 120 years ago yesterday.
He died at just 59, having had a heart attack. It is believed a second heart attack took his life.
6ft0.5.
RIP Clark XX 🕯️
1st February 1901 - 16th November 1960
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 26/Jan/21
Toward the end he was looking below 6ft...
Toward the end he was looking below 6ft...
Rich Paul said on 10/Jan/21
I believe Gable was a bit over 5-11. So over 6 feet in shoes which was tall for an actor. The photos of him with Cooper prove it.
I believe Gable was a bit over 5-11. So over 6 feet in shoes which was tall for an actor. The photos of him with Cooper prove it.
Tall Sam said on 20/Nov/20
I think he's got an angle advantage with Stewart and is standing a bit better than Keel, still its cool to see these with guys you wouldn't usually associate him with. In shots where he's a little on the older side besides Burt Lancaster Gable holds up pretty well too.
I think he's got an angle advantage with Stewart and is standing a bit better than Keel, still its cool to see these with guys you wouldn't usually associate him with. In shots where he's a little on the older side besides Burt Lancaster Gable holds up pretty well too.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 19/Nov/20
Clark actually isn't doing too badly with Keel and Stewart...looks close to 6ft1
Clark actually isn't doing too badly with Keel and Stewart...looks close to 6ft1
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 28/Oct/20
Arch, I really think a guy like Gable from a height point of view would've been the equivalent to what Affleck, Reynolds, Bana or Jackman would be now...Peck and Heston would be the Golden era equivalent of Neeson, Skarsgaard and Goldblum....whereas Copper and Stewart...Vaughn, Mangeniello, Robbins, Corbett....and then Rock Hudson, Clint Walker, James Arness and even Sterling Hayden were treated like Kevin Nash or Tyler Mane...freaks basically!
I'm talking purely height here now...not star quality! But yeah I think 6ft2 to 6ft4 guys became more accepted
Arch, I really think a guy like Gable from a height point of view would've been the equivalent to what Affleck, Reynolds, Bana or Jackman would be now...Peck and Heston would be the Golden era equivalent of Neeson, Skarsgaard and Goldblum....whereas Copper and Stewart...Vaughn, Mangeniello, Robbins, Corbett....and then Rock Hudson, Clint Walker, James Arness and even Sterling Hayden were treated like Kevin Nash or Tyler Mane...freaks basically!
I'm talking purely height here now...not star quality! But yeah I think 6ft2 to 6ft4 guys became more accepted
Arch Stanton said on 18/Oct/20
Hong said on 1/Aug/20
Click Here Here is Gable with 6 ft3 listed Gary Cooper,he doesn't look any more than 6 ft there,in fact he looks more 5 ft11.5 range,What do you think ROB?
Editor Rob
That moment he can seem about 6ft
Cooper was very arguably taller than 6'3 flat though..
Gable has a point, Hollywood certainly seemed to embrace the 6'2-6'4 rangers in the classic period, 6'3 for an actor in the golden period was still very tall but still fairly common, there were way more examples of it than in an average population.
Hong said on 1/Aug/20
Click Here Here is Gable with 6 ft3 listed Gary Cooper,he doesn't look any more than 6 ft there,in fact he looks more 5 ft11.5 range,What do you think ROB?
Editor Rob
That moment he can seem about 6ft
Cooper was very arguably taller than 6'3 flat though..
Gable has a point, Hollywood certainly seemed to embrace the 6'2-6'4 rangers in the classic period, 6'3 for an actor in the golden period was still very tall but still fairly common, there were way more examples of it than in an average population.
LJM said on 22/Sep/20
In the photo from Hong on August 1, Coop is in heels. In this candid video of the two of them going to lunch at Chasen's, if the link works, you can see them closer in height, maybe just a couple of inches between them. Click Here
In the photo from Hong on August 1, Coop is in heels. In this candid video of the two of them going to lunch at Chasen's, if the link works, you can see them closer in height, maybe just a couple of inches between them. Click Here
JustJohnny said on 20/Sep/20
5’11”-ish.
5’11”-ish.
Hong said on 1/Aug/20
Click Here Here is Gable with 6 ft3 listed Gary Cooper,he doesn't look any more than 6 ft there,in fact he looks more 5 ft11.5 range,What do you think ROB?
Editor Rob
Click Here Here is Gable with 6 ft3 listed Gary Cooper,he doesn't look any more than 6 ft there,in fact he looks more 5 ft11.5 range,What do you think ROB?
Editor RobThat moment he can seem about 6ft
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 25/Mar/20
50’s-60’s: weak-to-flat 6ft, 230lbs w/h bad posture, back issues and other health problems due to years of smoking and drinking.
Prime: weak 6ft1, muscular 195lbs, broad shouldered, narrow waist, good posture. Naturally mesomorphic. Athletically inclined
50’s-60’s: weak-to-flat 6ft, 230lbs w/h bad posture, back issues and other health problems due to years of smoking and drinking.
Prime: weak 6ft1, muscular 195lbs, broad shouldered, narrow waist, good posture. Naturally mesomorphic. Athletically inclined
VitoCheng said on 25/Mar/20
Give him an objective value: 183.5cm
Give him an objective value: 183.5cm
Miss Sandy Cowell said on 1/Feb/20
Clark Gable was born on this day 119 years ago today.
I've just found out that he was just 59 when he died. My Mum was expecting me at the time, so unlike with Marilyn Monroe, our life paths didn't actually meet. 😢
6ft0.5
Clark Gable was born on this day 119 years ago today.
I've just found out that he was just 59 when he died. My Mum was expecting me at the time, so unlike with Marilyn Monroe, our life paths didn't actually meet. 😢
6ft0.5
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 17/Nov/19
Rob, who do you think was taller peak Grant or Gable?
Editor Rob
Rob, who do you think was taller peak Grant or Gable?
Editor RobWell Grant looked that taller, though if he was only 6ft 1/2 then he may not have been much different than Gable...
Rich Paul said on 12/Nov/19
James said on 3/Apr/17
Gable was wearing built up shoes in "It Started in Naples".
Built up shoes? Hardly.
Click Here
James said on 3/Apr/17
Gable was wearing built up shoes in "It Started in Naples".
Built up shoes? Hardly.
Click Here
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 9/Nov/19
Could look a weak 6ft at the end, early years though close to 6ft1
Could look a weak 6ft at the end, early years though close to 6ft1
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 28/May/19
He looked barely shorter than a young Sidney Poitier in Band of Angels...one of his later ones and Sidney’s earliest. Not sure if it was lifts but he looked 186-187cm range if Poitier was 189-190cm
He looked barely shorter than a young Sidney Poitier in Band of Angels...one of his later ones and Sidney’s earliest. Not sure if it was lifts but he looked 186-187cm range if Poitier was 189-190cm
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 2/Mar/19
No less than E for me and as much as C is arguable.
No less than E for me and as much as C is arguable.
Mark Harrison said on 28/Feb/19
Since he appeared to be 5'11" range in "The Misfits" I doubt he was ever 6'1" as he wouldn't have lost two inches by his late fifties.
Since he appeared to be 5'11" range in "The Misfits" I doubt he was ever 6'1" as he wouldn't have lost two inches by his late fifties.
James Fergus said on 25/Feb/19
Gable never looked over six foot even in his 20s.
Gable never looked over six foot even in his 20s.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 24/Feb/19
Rob, which one?
A) 188cm/186cm
B) 187.5cm/185.5cm
C) 187cm/185cm
D) 186.5cm/184.5cm
E) 186cm/184cm
F) 185.5cm/183.5cm
G) 185cm/183cm
Editor Rob
Rob, which one?
A) 188cm/186cm
B) 187.5cm/185.5cm
C) 187cm/185cm
D) 186.5cm/184.5cm
E) 186cm/184cm
F) 185.5cm/183.5cm
G) 185cm/183cm
Editor RobFor me still D at most I feel
Ed Innocenzi said on 11/Feb/19
I have read numerous biographies of Gable and seen pictures next to various other Hollywood male stars. He was definitely 6' 1". He had a habit of slouching forward which might have made him look shorter but he was 6ft. 1 inch tall.
I have read numerous biographies of Gable and seen pictures next to various other Hollywood male stars. He was definitely 6' 1". He had a habit of slouching forward which might have made him look shorter but he was 6ft. 1 inch tall.
Sara S. said on 6/Feb/19
Obviously Clark Gable's height is overly disputed, but for as much as my input is worth I'd say he was 6'1" at his prime in the 1930's. 6'2" is believable for when he worked as a lumberjacker in his 20's. Every female co-star he worked with wore heels 3"-4" high in order not to be dwarfed by him. In his later days his height understandably shrunk a few inches due to poor health, so I am making this guess based on his time as the King of Hollywood during the earlier years of the Golden Era, and the fact that he stood equal to male co-stars of the same height sans pumps.
Obviously Clark Gable's height is overly disputed, but for as much as my input is worth I'd say he was 6'1" at his prime in the 1930's. 6'2" is believable for when he worked as a lumberjacker in his 20's. Every female co-star he worked with wore heels 3"-4" high in order not to be dwarfed by him. In his later days his height understandably shrunk a few inches due to poor health, so I am making this guess based on his time as the King of Hollywood during the earlier years of the Golden Era, and the fact that he stood equal to male co-stars of the same height sans pumps.
Jake: 1.84 m - 1.85 m said on 31/Jan/19
I reckon he could've been 6ft 0.25in.
I reckon he could've been 6ft 0.25in.
Mark Harrison said on 5/Nov/18
Most of Gable's films after the war were flops, which is why MGM dropped him. The "King of Hollywood" title only applied to the late 1930s. Gable was about 5'11" in normal shoes, making him about an inch shorter tban Flynn.
Most of Gable's films after the war were flops, which is why MGM dropped him. The "King of Hollywood" title only applied to the late 1930s. Gable was about 5'11" in normal shoes, making him about an inch shorter tban Flynn.
LJM said on 3/Nov/18
Mark Harrison, I like Errol, but his last appearance in the top 10 of the National Association of Theater Owner's poll was in 1939. Flynn's career suffered badly after the War due in part to the fact that he didn't serve. Gable, who did serve, continued being Gable, continued to appear in the NATO top 10, and remained (and remains) the undisputed King of Hollywood. Height-wise, neither was "clearly" taller than the other. Both were a good height, in Gable's case proven to be 6'1".
Mark Harrison, I like Errol, but his last appearance in the top 10 of the National Association of Theater Owner's poll was in 1939. Flynn's career suffered badly after the War due in part to the fact that he didn't serve. Gable, who did serve, continued being Gable, continued to appear in the NATO top 10, and remained (and remains) the undisputed King of Hollywood. Height-wise, neither was "clearly" taller than the other. Both were a good height, in Gable's case proven to be 6'1".
Mark Harrison said on 25/Oct/18
Flynn was clearly taller than Gable. And he was a bigger star after World War II.
Flynn was clearly taller than Gable. And he was a bigger star after World War II.
Mark Harrison said on 20/Sep/18
Gable refused to make a film with Errol Flynn because Flynn was taller and almost a decade younger. He even told Flynn he preferred working with older, shorter actors like Spencer Tracy.
Gable refused to make a film with Errol Flynn because Flynn was taller and almost a decade younger. He even told Flynn he preferred working with older, shorter actors like Spencer Tracy.
ricardo brand?o paes said on 8/Sep/18
Gable was taller than Mickey Rooney, and certainly taller than Shirley Temple.But seriously: there are photos of the star with Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne and Gary Cooper. Stewart and Cooper were known to be very tall and this is visible in the photos with Gable. There's no way to compare the height of Clark Gable with John Wayne - "The Duke " was, beyond any reasonable doubt, a huge guy.But seriously: there are photos of the star with Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne and Gary Cooper. Stewart and Cooper were known to be very tall and this is visible in the photos with Gable. There is no way to compare the height of Clark Gable with John Wayne - Duke was, beyond any reasonable doubt, a huge guy. However, he was allegedly much more solid than Gary Cooper or James Stewart-all accounts speak of his sturdy build, of his broad shoulders, and also of his remarkably large hands.
Gable was taller than Mickey Rooney, and certainly taller than Shirley Temple.But seriously: there are photos of the star with Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne and Gary Cooper. Stewart and Cooper were known to be very tall and this is visible in the photos with Gable. There's no way to compare the height of Clark Gable with John Wayne - "The Duke " was, beyond any reasonable doubt, a huge guy.But seriously: there are photos of the star with Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne and Gary Cooper. Stewart and Cooper were known to be very tall and this is visible in the photos with Gable. There is no way to compare the height of Clark Gable with John Wayne - Duke was, beyond any reasonable doubt, a huge guy. However, he was allegedly much more solid than Gary Cooper or James Stewart-all accounts speak of his sturdy build, of his broad shoulders, and also of his remarkably large hands.
LJM said on 3/Jul/18
Agree with Ed Innocenzi, this question has been asked and answered. Clark Gable was a big guy, over 6 feet. Here is an excerpt from Lyn Tornabene's well-researched Gable biography "Long Live The King," describing Gable's first meeting in 1960 (at age 59) with the cast of "The Misfits"--"Here he stands: 6 feet, 1 inch tall, a husky man, whose girth and look of controlled power make him appear even bigger than he is. An average man wears a size 40 suit: Gable’s suits are 44 long. He measures 45 around the chest, 36 around the waist....He fills a doorway, seems squashed in a wing chair. He has remarkable posture and, for a man his size, remarkable grace....."
Agree with Ed Innocenzi, this question has been asked and answered. Clark Gable was a big guy, over 6 feet. Here is an excerpt from Lyn Tornabene's well-researched Gable biography "Long Live The King," describing Gable's first meeting in 1960 (at age 59) with the cast of "The Misfits"--"Here he stands: 6 feet, 1 inch tall, a husky man, whose girth and look of controlled power make him appear even bigger than he is. An average man wears a size 40 suit: Gable’s suits are 44 long. He measures 45 around the chest, 36 around the waist....He fills a doorway, seems squashed in a wing chair. He has remarkable posture and, for a man his size, remarkable grace....."
Ed Innocenzi said on 13/Jun/18
I have done a good of research. I have seen a picture of Clark Gable standing next to Robert Montgomery who is listed as 6'1". They are exactly the same height. John Wayne is listed as 6'4". Gable stands about slightly above his ear or about three inches shorter. He was six foot one.
I have done a good of research. I have seen a picture of Clark Gable standing next to Robert Montgomery who is listed as 6'1". They are exactly the same height. John Wayne is listed as 6'4". Gable stands about slightly above his ear or about three inches shorter. He was six foot one.
Ian C said on 6/Jun/18
I have not studied anatomy, Croaker, but I'm not sure that that is a necessary credential for the discussion we're having here. Never mind the anatomists; ask the tailors.
Or look at athletes. Basketball players and football players have noticeably different arm lengths in proportion to their torsos.
Or compare Marlon Brando's proportions with Paul Newman's. (Both were about five foot-nine.) Brando's arms and legs seem quite short next to Newman's.
A good potential source of data might be boxers, whose heights and arm lengths (in the form of "reach") are listed. I haven't actually done the research here but I'll bet right now that you could compile a list of boxers with the same height, and their reaches would vary considerably, over a range of about six inches.
And of course, when I say that Gable looks "ethnic" I mean that he doesn't look English. Because to me, "English" is not an ethnicity, but a basic human ideal to which all men must naturally aspire. Being of English extraction myself. Now if you'll excuse me, I want to visit another website where they don't have such stringent standards for good manners as Celebrity Heights, and say rude things about the French and the Germans. Because that's how I have fun.
I have not studied anatomy, Croaker, but I'm not sure that that is a necessary credential for the discussion we're having here. Never mind the anatomists; ask the tailors.
Or look at athletes. Basketball players and football players have noticeably different arm lengths in proportion to their torsos.
Or compare Marlon Brando's proportions with Paul Newman's. (Both were about five foot-nine.) Brando's arms and legs seem quite short next to Newman's.
A good potential source of data might be boxers, whose heights and arm lengths (in the form of "reach") are listed. I haven't actually done the research here but I'll bet right now that you could compile a list of boxers with the same height, and their reaches would vary considerably, over a range of about six inches.
And of course, when I say that Gable looks "ethnic" I mean that he doesn't look English. Because to me, "English" is not an ethnicity, but a basic human ideal to which all men must naturally aspire. Being of English extraction myself. Now if you'll excuse me, I want to visit another website where they don't have such stringent standards for good manners as Celebrity Heights, and say rude things about the French and the Germans. Because that's how I have fun.
LJM said on 27/May/18
Croaker1, there have from time to time been several of Gable's "uniforms" which have shown up at auction, but of dubious provenance. One for instance was listed with a 38" chest, which obviously would not have been his. See below for a height comparison with some of his fellow airmen. This Memorial Day weekend is a good time too to reflect on Gable's honorable war service.
Click Here
Croaker1, there have from time to time been several of Gable's "uniforms" which have shown up at auction, but of dubious provenance. One for instance was listed with a 38" chest, which obviously would not have been his. See below for a height comparison with some of his fellow airmen. This Memorial Day weekend is a good time too to reflect on Gable's honorable war service.
Click Here
LJM said on 26/May/18
Croaker1, there have from time to time been several of Gable's "uniforms" which have shown up at auction, but of dubious provenance. One for instance was listed with a 38" chest, which obviously would not have been his. See below for a height comparison with some of his fellow airmen. This Memorial Day weekend is a good time too to reflect on Gable's honorable war service.
Click Here
Croaker1, there have from time to time been several of Gable's "uniforms" which have shown up at auction, but of dubious provenance. One for instance was listed with a 38" chest, which obviously would not have been his. See below for a height comparison with some of his fellow airmen. This Memorial Day weekend is a good time too to reflect on Gable's honorable war service.
Click Here
Croaker1 said on 23/May/18
IanC ... It would be extraordinary for a man of six feet two inches to have the sleeve length of a man of five-ten or five-eleven. Having studied anatomy, I know what I'm talking about. There are other documented photographic markers which show Gable's height compared to Gary Cooper for instance. Cooper was 6'3" and towered over Gable. In addition, the surname "Gable" is German... not English.
IanC ... It would be extraordinary for a man of six feet two inches to have the sleeve length of a man of five-ten or five-eleven. Having studied anatomy, I know what I'm talking about. There are other documented photographic markers which show Gable's height compared to Gary Cooper for instance. Cooper was 6'3" and towered over Gable. In addition, the surname "Gable" is German... not English.
Ian C said on 20/May/18
Sleeve length is not that reliable an indicator of height, Croaker1, because arm and leg lengths vary considerably among different people of the same height. Football players tend to have short arms and legs for their heights, and Gable had that football player physique: a blunt, thick torso and short, powerful arms and legs.
Sleeve length is not that reliable an indicator of height, Croaker1, because arm and leg lengths vary considerably among different people of the same height. Football players tend to have short arms and legs for their heights, and Gable had that football player physique: a blunt, thick torso and short, powerful arms and legs.
Croaker1 said on 1/May/18
Gable was between 5'10" and 5'11". That was taller ( 3-4 inches ) than average for Gable's generation. The average height of the American male today is only 5'9". You can't go by the studio publicists who always had to exaggerate the physical stats of their stars! I'm 6'2" and recently got an up close and personal view of one of Gable's WWII dress blouses and it would have been way to small for me as I compared sleeve length.
Gable was between 5'10" and 5'11". That was taller ( 3-4 inches ) than average for Gable's generation. The average height of the American male today is only 5'9". You can't go by the studio publicists who always had to exaggerate the physical stats of their stars! I'm 6'2" and recently got an up close and personal view of one of Gable's WWII dress blouses and it would have been way to small for me as I compared sleeve length.
Dave 180cm said on 10/Apr/18
There is a photo of him with 6ft listed Brodrwick Crawford and he looks a bit shorter
There is a photo of him with 6ft listed Brodrwick Crawford and he looks a bit shorter
Ian C. said on 23/Mar/18
Gable was a fine actor Tall Sam, because he was a heroic leading man and yet still seemed human. That's a tough one to pull off, especially when you consider that Gable was limited by the movie conventions of his time (1935 to 1950), in which formulaic and cartoonishly simple characters were the norm. Look at how much better he was than Errol Flynn or Gary Cooper, for example.
Gone With the Wind just stinks out loud, but it is at least partially redeemed by Gable's performance in it. Rhett Butler is this big, brash alpha-male guy, and then it turns out that he can be hurt. I don't think John Wayne, who was very good at playing supermasculine heroes, ever actually tried that after he became an established star.
Gable was a fine actor Tall Sam, because he was a heroic leading man and yet still seemed human. That's a tough one to pull off, especially when you consider that Gable was limited by the movie conventions of his time (1935 to 1950), in which formulaic and cartoonishly simple characters were the norm. Look at how much better he was than Errol Flynn or Gary Cooper, for example.
Gone With the Wind just stinks out loud, but it is at least partially redeemed by Gable's performance in it. Rhett Butler is this big, brash alpha-male guy, and then it turns out that he can be hurt. I don't think John Wayne, who was very good at playing supermasculine heroes, ever actually tried that after he became an established star.
Tall Sam said on 22/Feb/18
I'd agree that he was hard to equal in terms of a leading man who burned up the screen with his charisma, both he and Garner were limited as actors even compared to other male stars back then, I'd say Jimmy Stewart or Henry Fonda were better actors for example, could Gable pull off the wrenching vulnerability, complexity and burning anger and/or obsessiveness of Stewart in his Capra, Hitchcock and especially Anthony Mann or Fonda in Grapes of Wrath, The Ox-Bow Incident and, well, most of his movies? Probably not, but they didn't hold the screen as a manly, capable guy as Gable could.
I'd agree that he was hard to equal in terms of a leading man who burned up the screen with his charisma, both he and Garner were limited as actors even compared to other male stars back then, I'd say Jimmy Stewart or Henry Fonda were better actors for example, could Gable pull off the wrenching vulnerability, complexity and burning anger and/or obsessiveness of Stewart in his Capra, Hitchcock and especially Anthony Mann or Fonda in Grapes of Wrath, The Ox-Bow Incident and, well, most of his movies? Probably not, but they didn't hold the screen as a manly, capable guy as Gable could.
Sixone said on 18/Feb/18
My friend’s dad was Clark Gable’s mail carrier and he told me that Clark was maybe 5’8 tops. This was back in the late 1960’s
My friend’s dad was Clark Gable’s mail carrier and he told me that Clark was maybe 5’8 tops. This was back in the late 1960’s
Tall Sam said on 14/Feb/18
@Ian C., I thought he had fairly well traced roots to various German (including Pennsylvania Dutch) or Belgian backgrounds. Also, looking back, at times he could seem only a strong six footer, like 6'0.25" at times.
@Ian C., I thought he had fairly well traced roots to various German (including Pennsylvania Dutch) or Belgian backgrounds. Also, looking back, at times he could seem only a strong six footer, like 6'0.25" at times.
Ian C. said on 5/Feb/18
It is difficult to pin down Gable's ethnicity. He has an English surname, and yet looks Spanish. He's has a swarthy complexion and black hair. He could have been Irish, or even part Native American. He may even have been Jewish, as so many stars of his era were. He refused to say, describing himself as "American."
It is difficult to pin down Gable's ethnicity. He has an English surname, and yet looks Spanish. He's has a swarthy complexion and black hair. He could have been Irish, or even part Native American. He may even have been Jewish, as so many stars of his era were. He refused to say, describing himself as "American."
Mark said on 10/Jan/18
I think they surrounded him with short actors in "Mutiny on the Bounty" so he would look over six foot.
I think they surrounded him with short actors in "Mutiny on the Bounty" so he would look over six foot.
Anonymous said on 29/Dec/17
5'10"-5'11".
5'10"-5'11".
LJM said on 26/Dec/17
Friend of mine's uncle from the UK was an aide (batman) to Gable during his service in the Army Air Corp over there, in WWII. I asked, and yes uncle said a solid 6'1" and taller than most back then. Many photos from his war service (in normal shoes and/or military issue boots) verify this. Rob it looks like you downgraded Gable a half inch, yet 6'1" is the consensus in several well-researched books and in contemporaneous recollections.
Friend of mine's uncle from the UK was an aide (batman) to Gable during his service in the Army Air Corp over there, in WWII. I asked, and yes uncle said a solid 6'1" and taller than most back then. Many photos from his war service (in normal shoes and/or military issue boots) verify this. Rob it looks like you downgraded Gable a half inch, yet 6'1" is the consensus in several well-researched books and in contemporaneous recollections.
Robert said on 21/Dec/17
My mother was a British citizen living in London during WW II when Gable came to England with the US Eighth Air Force, On at least one occasion she was in the same club as Gable and said that she found his physical stature to be disappointing after having spent her teenage years idolizing the movie star. She described him as being shorter than she imagined and "blocky" in appearance. Recalling her description I was surprised to learn that his official height iwas 6'1." Either my mother's memory was faulty or his official height was exaggerated.
My mother was a British citizen living in London during WW II when Gable came to England with the US Eighth Air Force, On at least one occasion she was in the same club as Gable and said that she found his physical stature to be disappointing after having spent her teenage years idolizing the movie star. She described him as being shorter than she imagined and "blocky" in appearance. Recalling her description I was surprised to learn that his official height iwas 6'1." Either my mother's memory was faulty or his official height was exaggerated.
James said on 18/Dec/17
Gable was 5'11" in ordinary shoes.
Gable was 5'11" in ordinary shoes.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 16/Dec/17
He looks near 6ft1 in that photo w/h Stewart and both guys are in similar shoes. I don't think I'd completely rule that out for him in his youth...
He looks near 6ft1 in that photo w/h Stewart and both guys are in similar shoes. I don't think I'd completely rule that out for him in his youth...
James said on 27/Nov/17
Heston was a major star from 1952 onwards so it's likely they met.
Heston was a major star from 1952 onwards so it's likely they met.
Ed Innocenzi said on 26/Nov/17
I have read several biographies of Clark Gable. One book claimed the studios frequently said their male leading men were six feet tall when they were not. Gable however was over the mark by an inch. As I said height is relative. Can we be certain that Heston ever met Gable?
I have read several biographies of Clark Gable. One book claimed the studios frequently said their male leading men were six feet tall when they were not. Gable however was over the mark by an inch. As I said height is relative. Can we be certain that Heston ever met Gable?
James said on 25/Nov/17
If Gable was over six foot he would have been considered tall. Heston also wrote that heights are routinely altered in films.
If Gable was over six foot he would have been considered tall. Heston also wrote that heights are routinely altered in films.
James said on 24/Nov/17
Gable never looked 6'1" in any film, except "Gone with the Wind" where he wore lifts.
Gable never looked 6'1" in any film, except "Gone with the Wind" where he wore lifts.
Ed Innocenzi said on 23/Nov/17
I ran across a 1936 photo of Clark Gable and Cesar Romero. In the photo Romero was slightly taller than Gable by maybe an inch or so. Romero was 6ft.2or 3. I read Charlton Heston's biography. Charlton Heston was 6ft.3in. tall. Height is relative. To a man 6ft.3in. a man 6ft. 1in. is not tall. To a man like me who is only 5ft. 8in. 6ft.1in. is tall. Lets face it if Gable,Heston,and Romero were photographed next to some of todays centers in the NBA they would all look short. Gable was 6ft. 1in.
I ran across a 1936 photo of Clark Gable and Cesar Romero. In the photo Romero was slightly taller than Gable by maybe an inch or so. Romero was 6ft.2or 3. I read Charlton Heston's biography. Charlton Heston was 6ft.3in. tall. Height is relative. To a man 6ft.3in. a man 6ft. 1in. is not tall. To a man like me who is only 5ft. 8in. 6ft.1in. is tall. Lets face it if Gable,Heston,and Romero were photographed next to some of todays centers in the NBA they would all look short. Gable was 6ft. 1in.
Mister lennon said on 23/Nov/17
Solid 6 peak.
Solid 6 peak.
James said on 22/Nov/17
Because Poitier was unknown, and a genuine 6'2"? Gable was 5'11".
Because Poitier was unknown, and a genuine 6'2"? Gable was 5'11".
Ed Innocenzi said on 21/Nov/17
Interesting. How do we know Poitier was not wearing lifts?
Interesting. How do we know Poitier was not wearing lifts?
James said on 21/Nov/17
If Gable was the same height as Poitier he must have been wearing lifts.
If Gable was the same height as Poitier he must have been wearing lifts.
Ed Innocenzi said on 21/Nov/17
I have read numerous books on Clark Gable and have almost all of his movies on VHS tapes or DVD discs. Everywhere he is listed at 6t 1in. In one movie Band Of Angels he is standing right next to Sidney Poitier who is listed at 6ft. 2 1/2 in. and is just as tall or perhaps only a fraction of an inch shorter than Poitier.
I have read numerous books on Clark Gable and have almost all of his movies on VHS tapes or DVD discs. Everywhere he is listed at 6t 1in. In one movie Band Of Angels he is standing right next to Sidney Poitier who is listed at 6ft. 2 1/2 in. and is just as tall or perhaps only a fraction of an inch shorter than Poitier.
James said on 31/Oct/17
Charlton Heston wrote in his autobiography that Gable wasn't tall. If Gable was over six foot that doesn't make sense. Also he did not have good posture - he was extremely overweight and had severe back problems.
Charlton Heston wrote in his autobiography that Gable wasn't tall. If Gable was over six foot that doesn't make sense. Also he did not have good posture - he was extremely overweight and had severe back problems.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 11/Oct/17
I could see him walking around at 6ft2 in some shoes
I could see him walking around at 6ft2 in some shoes
James said on 8/Oct/17
Gable was exactly six foot. He wore built up shoes at MGM.
Gable was exactly six foot. He wore built up shoes at MGM.
Barzin Samimi said on 7/Oct/17
It seems as though most of the people writing comment on the internet on a subject are a bunch of floozies or late night drunks with such detestable comments. Gable was 6 ft. 1 inch. In several photos he is seen walking with Robert Montgomery who was of the same height and they were even in height. Also he is seen in pictures with another fellow MGM actor William Powell who was 6 ft. even and Gable always looked taller in those pictures with Powell.
It seems as though most of the people writing comment on the internet on a subject are a bunch of floozies or late night drunks with such detestable comments. Gable was 6 ft. 1 inch. In several photos he is seen walking with Robert Montgomery who was of the same height and they were even in height. Also he is seen in pictures with another fellow MGM actor William Powell who was 6 ft. even and Gable always looked taller in those pictures with Powell.
movieguy said on 5/Oct/17
Funny the comment above with Gable saying he feels small at 6'2''. Actors are usually believed to be not that tall on average with most shorter than their official height in reality. Gable was I guess the biggest male star in the world in his time but his looks seem out of place in the modern world. I agree with most of the other posters and would give Gable 6ft even.
Funny the comment above with Gable saying he feels small at 6'2''. Actors are usually believed to be not that tall on average with most shorter than their official height in reality. Gable was I guess the biggest male star in the world in his time but his looks seem out of place in the modern world. I agree with most of the other posters and would give Gable 6ft even.
James said on 19/Sep/17
Check out when Gable meets the jayhawkers in "The Tall Men", about 68 minutes into the film. You can see he was standing on a box to look taller than Robert Ryan, who was 6'3" or 6'4".
Check out when Gable meets the jayhawkers in "The Tall Men", about 68 minutes into the film. You can see he was standing on a box to look taller than Robert Ryan, who was 6'3" or 6'4".
James Howerton said on 3/Sep/17
To Charlie from Canada I'd say I think he's selling Clark Gable (and his fellow Canadians) short. Gable was 6' tall even though you're correct in being suspicious of celebrities stated heights. I see it all the time in movies where the character is said in the movie to be over six feet even though it's someone like Tom Cruise. It is especially prevalent in American sports, most notably football. I'm 6'2" and I've seen players in real life who were nowhere near what they were listed at. But the average height of Americans has been increasing each few generations or so, probably due partly to nutritional changes and partly due to genes. I would think that the same holds true for Canadians but I don't live there so I have no verification for that.
To Charlie from Canada I'd say I think he's selling Clark Gable (and his fellow Canadians) short. Gable was 6' tall even though you're correct in being suspicious of celebrities stated heights. I see it all the time in movies where the character is said in the movie to be over six feet even though it's someone like Tom Cruise. It is especially prevalent in American sports, most notably football. I'm 6'2" and I've seen players in real life who were nowhere near what they were listed at. But the average height of Americans has been increasing each few generations or so, probably due partly to nutritional changes and partly due to genes. I would think that the same holds true for Canadians but I don't live there so I have no verification for that.
Arch Stanton said on 14/Aug/17
In Band of Angels Patric Knowles had nearly 3 inches on Gable as was listed at 6 ft 2. I think Gable was down to 5'11 range by his last years.
In Band of Angels Patric Knowles had nearly 3 inches on Gable as was listed at 6 ft 2. I think Gable was down to 5'11 range by his last years.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 6/Aug/17
He could have lost close to 1in by the time of his death.
He could have lost close to 1in by the time of his death.
James said on 22/Jul/17
Gable stood on a box to look taller than 6'3"/6'4" Robert Ryan in several scenes in "The Tall Men".
Gable stood on a box to look taller than 6'3"/6'4" Robert Ryan in several scenes in "The Tall Men".
Richard said on 13/Jul/17
He looked six feet even in "Across the Wide Missouri".
He looked six feet even in "Across the Wide Missouri".
Richard said on 30/Jun/17
Did Gable wear lifts in later films like "Betrayed"?
Did Gable wear lifts in later films like "Betrayed"?
LJM said on 20/Jun/17
I'm watching "Betrayed" from the early '50s, an excellent wartime thriller, and Gable is close to toe-to-toe with Victor Mature, maybe a hair under but not by a lot, and so still 6 feet plus.
I'm watching "Betrayed" from the early '50s, an excellent wartime thriller, and Gable is close to toe-to-toe with Victor Mature, maybe a hair under but not by a lot, and so still 6 feet plus.
James said on 17/Jun/17
Gable must have been in terrible health in his last years, which would have affected his height. I just saw an interview with Richard Burton from 1983 and it was obvious he was developing emphysema.
Gable must have been in terrible health in his last years, which would have affected his height. I just saw an interview with Richard Burton from 1983 and it was obvious he was developing emphysema.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 10/Jun/17
Rob, is it possible he was dipping under 6ft by the time of his death?
Editor Rob
Rob, is it possible he was dipping under 6ft by the time of his death?
Editor Rob Rampage, it wouldn't be surprising if he did a little.
James said on 26/May/17
It's unlikely Gable would have shrunk from 6'2" to 5'10" though, especially as he died in his 50s.
It's unlikely Gable would have shrunk from 6'2" to 5'10" though, especially as he died in his 50s.
James Howerton said on 25/May/17
I think most people forget that we shrink as we age. When I was 19, I was 6'2" and now, at 59, I'm 6' 1/2". Of course I also have back problems that first occurred at age 19.
I think most people forget that we shrink as we age. When I was 19, I was 6'2" and now, at 59, I'm 6' 1/2". Of course I also have back problems that first occurred at age 19.
Sandy Cowell said on 19/Apr/17
In her youth, my Mum had a massive crush on Rhett Butler! It was evident that there were still signs of it being alive and well when we watched 'Gone With the Wind' together decades later!
So I see Rhett stood an impressive 6ft and half an inch - no mean feat in those days! That, then, is what he gets from me!
In her youth, my Mum had a massive crush on Rhett Butler! It was evident that there were still signs of it being alive and well when we watched 'Gone With the Wind' together decades later!
So I see Rhett stood an impressive 6ft and half an inch - no mean feat in those days! That, then, is what he gets from me!
Arch Stanton said on 18/Apr/17
Burt Lancaster edged him out in Run Silent, Run Deep, in some scenes they looked very similar and other Burt an inch taller. I wouldn't be surprised though if Gable was wearing lifts by his last years though, he didn't look 6 ft range with Sophia in that period.
Burt Lancaster edged him out in Run Silent, Run Deep, in some scenes they looked very similar and other Burt an inch taller. I wouldn't be surprised though if Gable was wearing lifts by his last years though, he didn't look 6 ft range with Sophia in that period.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 10/Apr/17
He might have been 6ft flat in later years
He might have been 6ft flat in later years
Arch Stanton said on 9/Apr/17
James said on 3/Apr/17
Gable was wearing built up shoes in "It Started in Naples". He didn't get along with Loren because she made it clear he was too old for her.
That's not quite true, Loren said she liked Gable very much but didn't like the way he would leave the set at 5pm like clockwork without saying goodbye. Given Gable's health at the time I would be surprised if he'd made a serious attempt to woo her, but wouldn't put it past him. If Gable did have a lift, which in one scene did seem possible seeing his shoes then he was not even 5'11 by that time.
James said on 3/Apr/17
Gable was wearing built up shoes in "It Started in Naples". He didn't get along with Loren because she made it clear he was too old for her.
That's not quite true, Loren said she liked Gable very much but didn't like the way he would leave the set at 5pm like clockwork without saying goodbye. Given Gable's health at the time I would be surprised if he'd made a serious attempt to woo her, but wouldn't put it past him. If Gable did have a lift, which in one scene did seem possible seeing his shoes then he was not even 5'11 by that time.
James said on 3/Apr/17
Gable was wearing built up shoes in "It Started in Naples". He didn't get along with Loren because she made it clear he was too old for her. In real life he may have already had two heart attacks.
Gable was wearing built up shoes in "It Started in Naples". He didn't get along with Loren because she made it clear he was too old for her. In real life he may have already had two heart attacks.
Arch Stanton said on 3/Apr/17
Maybe it's a 5 inch diff, but no more than that. Gable must have lost a good inch in height by 58 or 59! If he had back trouble I guess it's possible.
Maybe it's a 5 inch diff, but no more than that. Gable must have lost a good inch in height by 58 or 59! If he had back trouble I guess it's possible.
Arch Stanton said on 3/Apr/17
Yup, in one scene Sophia is in her socks and Gable in shoes is about 4-4.5 inches taller. Doesn't make sense, there's no way she could have been 5'7.5 and Gable really 6'0.5. The math works out with Gable more at 5 ft 11 by his last years.
Yup, in one scene Sophia is in her socks and Gable in shoes is about 4-4.5 inches taller. Doesn't make sense, there's no way she could have been 5'7.5 and Gable really 6'0.5. The math works out with Gable more at 5 ft 11 by his last years.
Arch Stanton said on 3/Apr/17
Gable really looks nearer 5 ft 11 in It Happened in Naples. he would have only been about 58 or 59 not long before his death. I'm not sure he'd really have lost 1.5 inches from peak by then.
Gable really looks nearer 5 ft 11 in It Happened in Naples. he would have only been about 58 or 59 not long before his death. I'm not sure he'd really have lost 1.5 inches from peak by then.
Arch Stanton said on 3/Apr/17
Certainly by his last years he was no longer anything over 6 ft. In It Happened in Naples he's pretty much the same height as Sophia Loren in heels, perhaps a shade taller. Loren around 5'7.5 in heels should really be nothing over 5'11.5 in heels. Gable in comparison looks about 6 ft IN SHOES.
Certainly by his last years he was no longer anything over 6 ft. In It Happened in Naples he's pretty much the same height as Sophia Loren in heels, perhaps a shade taller. Loren around 5'7.5 in heels should really be nothing over 5'11.5 in heels. Gable in comparison looks about 6 ft IN SHOES.
mister_lennon said on 4/Mar/17
At peak, he could be a solid 6, for sure. Around 183-184. Maybe a weak 185.
But in his last days, he was no more than 5'10, 178-179.
He was barelly taller than monty clift and he was about 2 or 3 inches shorter than peak burt lancaster.
At peak, he could be a solid 6, for sure. Around 183-184. Maybe a weak 185.
But in his last days, he was no more than 5'10, 178-179.
He was barelly taller than monty clift and he was about 2 or 3 inches shorter than peak burt lancaster.
James said on 2/Mar/17
Gable admitted to Montgomery Clift that he had suffered from back problems for years. That would have caused him to lose height, combined with an unhealthy lifestyle.
Gable admitted to Montgomery Clift that he had suffered from back problems for years. That would have caused him to lose height, combined with an unhealthy lifestyle.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 28/Feb/17
@mister_lennon: I think he may have been closer to that in his last days but at peak he was comfortably over 6ft. Possibly 6ft0¾(185cm) in the early years and from there could reach 6ft2 in shoes. Like Cary Grant he drank and smoked excessively...and it may have cost a little. Probably around 6ft at the end if not a little less than that...and much heavier. Those last photos are hard on the eyes...
@mister_lennon: I think he may have been closer to that in his last days but at peak he was comfortably over 6ft. Possibly 6ft0¾(185cm) in the early years and from there could reach 6ft2 in shoes. Like Cary Grant he drank and smoked excessively...and it may have cost a little. Probably around 6ft at the end if not a little less than that...and much heavier. Those last photos are hard on the eyes...
James said on 27/Feb/17
Gable was never 6'1". That was just his official height given by the studio.
Gable was never 6'1". That was just his official height given by the studio.
mister_lennon said on 22/Feb/17
I think he was 5'11 peak and 5'10 in his last days.
peak:182-183
Last days:178-179
I think he was 5'11 peak and 5'10 in his last days.
peak:182-183
Last days:178-179
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 21/Feb/17
Rob, how likely is a weak 6ft1 in his early career?
I think by his last film he looked about 6ft flat
Editor Rob
Rob, how likely is a weak 6ft1 in his early career?
I think by his last film he looked about 6ft flat
Editor Rob his height is still a debate, at times he could look barely 6ft, other times even near 6ft 1...with someone like Big Jimmy Stewart, I still feel somewhere over 6ft but under 6ft 1 is ok. Not many would argue stewart any less than an honest 6ft 3er in his heyday.
Charlie said on 21/Feb/17
6 ft is out of the question for Clark.He stood 1.5 inches taller than 5'8 George Cukor who Directed Gone with the Wind along sid with Victor Fleming. He did not look like a 6.0 ft man beside George Cukor. Clark was more likely to be 5 ft 10 inches when he did Gone with the Wind. Clark was the same height as 5 ft 10 Leslie Howard who placed Ashley Wilkes
6 ft is out of the question for Clark.He stood 1.5 inches taller than 5'8 George Cukor who Directed Gone with the Wind along sid with Victor Fleming. He did not look like a 6.0 ft man beside George Cukor. Clark was more likely to be 5 ft 10 inches when he did Gone with the Wind. Clark was the same height as 5 ft 10 Leslie Howard who placed Ashley Wilkes
LJM said on 4/Feb/17
I don't know who "James" is but he seems to troll this site with great negativity. He is on the Roger Moore page disparaging Sir Roger too. Sad. Anyway to the comment of "few people even know who he was now," last night my daughter and I attended a showing of Gone With The Wind at a theater in Ventura CA and sure enough, as there has been at every screening of GWTW that I have attended over the past half century, there was an audible gasp and whoops of delight from the large cross-generational audience when he first appeared on the screen. And more whoops to accompany the "Frankly my dear" line. So to Arch Stanton's point, Gable owned the screen in every scene he was in, and based on last night's experience he continues to do so. And to keep the post height-oriented, he appeared taller than anybody else in the film except possibly that Ward Bond (the Yankee captain) had an inch on him.
I don't know who "James" is but he seems to troll this site with great negativity. He is on the Roger Moore page disparaging Sir Roger too. Sad. Anyway to the comment of "few people even know who he was now," last night my daughter and I attended a showing of Gone With The Wind at a theater in Ventura CA and sure enough, as there has been at every screening of GWTW that I have attended over the past half century, there was an audible gasp and whoops of delight from the large cross-generational audience when he first appeared on the screen. And more whoops to accompany the "Frankly my dear" line. So to Arch Stanton's point, Gable owned the screen in every scene he was in, and based on last night's experience he continues to do so. And to keep the post height-oriented, he appeared taller than anybody else in the film except possibly that Ward Bond (the Yankee captain) had an inch on him.
James said on 10/Dec/16
Charles Laughton acted him off the screen, but then Gable was badly miscast as an officer in the Royal Navy.
Charles Laughton acted him off the screen, but then Gable was badly miscast as an officer in the Royal Navy.
Arch Stanton said on 8/Dec/16
I don't think he was that dark or handsome. Good looking, yes, but not strikingly handsome, huge ears for a start. What made him more attractive was his charm and confidence, he believed he was God's gift to women so women believed he was that. He owned the screen in every scene he was in, unsurpassed I think in terms of self confidence on screen for an actor.
I don't think he was that dark or handsome. Good looking, yes, but not strikingly handsome, huge ears for a start. What made him more attractive was his charm and confidence, he believed he was God's gift to women so women believed he was that. He owned the screen in every scene he was in, unsurpassed I think in terms of self confidence on screen for an actor.
jack said on 6/Dec/16
tall, dark and strikingly handsome who was his own man
tall, dark and strikingly handsome who was his own man
James said on 8/Oct/16
Gable was six foot at his peak in 1930. He was not the greatest movie star, few people even know who he was now.
Gable was six foot at his peak in 1930. He was not the greatest movie star, few people even know who he was now.
LJM said on 5/Oct/16
First up..I enjoy this site very much, thanks. Thoughtful commentary and careful editing and curating. Photos are sometimes deceptive for many reasons, as mentioned here. Personal reflections of actual meetings are interesting. I do feel you shortchange Gable. Reading Warren Harris's "Clark Gable" biography, and for instance of when MGM p.r. head Howard Strickling first met Gable and was struck by him being "a huge guy." Lot of testimony of Gable appearing big, huge, "squashed by a wing chair" (Lynn Tornabene's "Long Live The King" biography). Sadly, lot of energy being expended to downgrade (height-wise, and otherwise) the King of Hollywood, who was not a short guy, was a down to earth and popular guy, and was by acclamation the greatest of all the great stars. Little respect, please!
Editor Rob
First up..I enjoy this site very much, thanks. Thoughtful commentary and careful editing and curating. Photos are sometimes deceptive for many reasons, as mentioned here. Personal reflections of actual meetings are interesting. I do feel you shortchange Gable. Reading Warren Harris's "Clark Gable" biography, and for instance of when MGM p.r. head Howard Strickling first met Gable and was struck by him being "a huge guy." Lot of testimony of Gable appearing big, huge, "squashed by a wing chair" (Lynn Tornabene's "Long Live The King" biography). Sadly, lot of energy being expended to downgrade (height-wise, and otherwise) the King of Hollywood, who was not a short guy, was a down to earth and popular guy, and was by acclamation the greatest of all the great stars. Little respect, please!
Editor Rob well I appreciate honest estimates, I think some people do guess Gable over 6ft 1. I've not yet seen enough to convince me he was as tall as his own claim or even a solid 6ft 1.
James said on 2/Sep/16
Check the scene where they see the jayhawkers. Gable's knees were far above Ryan's, because he was on a box.
Check the scene where they see the jayhawkers. Gable's knees were far above Ryan's, because he was on a box.
Tom said on 29/Aug/16
James, were you on the set when The Tall Men was being shot? Unless you were or can produce photos showing Gable standing on a box, you're just rattling off nonsense.
Robert Taylor was relatively tall. Anywhere from 5-10 to 5-11 which for his time was taller than average. Fredric March was at least 5-10. Again, not short.
James, were you on the set when The Tall Men was being shot? Unless you were or can produce photos showing Gable standing on a box, you're just rattling off nonsense.
Robert Taylor was relatively tall. Anywhere from 5-10 to 5-11 which for his time was taller than average. Fredric March was at least 5-10. Again, not short.
James said on 17/Jul/16
Gable did wear lifts in "The Tall Men" so he would look more in line with 6'4" Robert Ryan. He was even standing on a box when they first saw the jayhawkers.
Not all the old stars were tall. Robert Taylor, Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, Fredric March etc weren't tall.
Gable did wear lifts in "The Tall Men" so he would look more in line with 6'4" Robert Ryan. He was even standing on a box when they first saw the jayhawkers.
Not all the old stars were tall. Robert Taylor, Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, Fredric March etc weren't tall.
grizz said on 15/Jul/16
How come all the greatest male actors in golden Hollywood era,from Clark Gable,Gary Cooper to John Wayne,were all tall guys,right in the 6'-6'4" range?
Did Hollywood do that on purpose? These days there are much more terrific male actors 5'8 and below than from 1930s to 1960s
How come all the greatest male actors in golden Hollywood era,from Clark Gable,Gary Cooper to John Wayne,were all tall guys,right in the 6'-6'4" range?
Did Hollywood do that on purpose? These days there are much more terrific male actors 5'8 and below than from 1930s to 1960s
Tom said on 12/Jul/16
Gable most definetely did not wear lifts. And was a legitimate 6 feet. I have to laugh at these silly claims that John Wayne and Gable were a lot shorter than advertised and needed help to look taller.
Gable most definetely did not wear lifts. And was a legitimate 6 feet. I have to laugh at these silly claims that John Wayne and Gable were a lot shorter than advertised and needed help to look taller.
charlie said on 10/Jul/16
I would put Clark Gable at 5 ft 9 flat feet. In his films he was most likely wearing lifts to appear taller.
I would put Clark Gable at 5 ft 9 flat feet. In his films he was most likely wearing lifts to appear taller.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 9/Jun/16
I can believe he wore lifts to pull off 6ft2 range
I can believe he wore lifts to pull off 6ft2 range
James said on 23/May/16
He didn't win an Oscar for GWTW because Robert Donat was given the award for political reasons due to the Blitz. Gable wore lifts in all his later films including "The Tall Men".
He didn't win an Oscar for GWTW because Robert Donat was given the award for political reasons due to the Blitz. Gable wore lifts in all his later films including "The Tall Men".
Tom said on 22/May/16
Except in Gone With the Wind, Gable did not wear lifts.
Except in Gone With the Wind, Gable did not wear lifts.
Arch Stanton said on 22/May/16
@Sam, I don;t know, there's a scene nearer the end indoors where the difference does look almost 4 inches. Earlier in the film, yeah Gable did look taller than 6'1 in comparison, box tricks likely as Tom says.
@Sam, I don;t know, there's a scene nearer the end indoors where the difference does look almost 4 inches. Earlier in the film, yeah Gable did look taller than 6'1 in comparison, box tricks likely as Tom says.
LoganNoll1996 said on 20/May/16
Just watched "Gone With The Wind" 2 days ago and I find myself wondering why he didn't win the Oscar for Best Actor. No one - past, present, or future - could portray Rhett Butler better than he did.
Just watched "Gone With The Wind" 2 days ago and I find myself wondering why he didn't win the Oscar for Best Actor. No one - past, present, or future - could portray Rhett Butler better than he did.
Tom said on 10/May/16
Gable always wore lifts.
Gable always wore lifts.
Tom said on 8/May/16
Gable stood on a box next to Robert Ryan in "The Tall Men".
Gable stood on a box next to Robert Ryan in "The Tall Men".
Sam said on 6/May/16
I don't see how Gable could look how tall he did with Robert Ryan in The Tall Men without some sort of help and Ryan was more convincing as a solid 6'4" than Gable ever was as a solid 6'1".
I don't see how Gable could look how tall he did with Robert Ryan in The Tall Men without some sort of help and Ryan was more convincing as a solid 6'4" than Gable ever was as a solid 6'1".
Tom said on 4/May/16
Tom, Gable didn't wear lifts in his later films. Watch them. In the western The Tall Men he wore cowboy boots that looked normal to me. I believe he was 6' even in his prime and was 5-11 by the time of his death.
Tom, Gable didn't wear lifts in his later films. Watch them. In the western The Tall Men he wore cowboy boots that looked normal to me. I believe he was 6' even in his prime and was 5-11 by the time of his death.
James said on 4/May/16
"Large man" just meant he was well built.
"Large man" just meant he was well built.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 3/May/16
Well, 6ft-6ft1 was the 30-40's equivalent of what 6ft2 is today
Well, 6ft-6ft1 was the 30-40's equivalent of what 6ft2 is today
Angel Segarra said on 2/May/16
In "Bring on the empty horses" 5'11" David Niven refers several times to Gable as a large man.He was obviously impressed with his size,6"1' minimum in his prime.
In "Bring on the empty horses" 5'11" David Niven refers several times to Gable as a large man.He was obviously impressed with his size,6"1' minimum in his prime.
Ian C. said on 28/Apr/16
Taller than James Cagney. Taller than Mickey Rooney. Taller than Gary Cooper. Dammit, taller than Gary Copper. Taller than Vivien Leigh, I'm pretty sure about that.
Taller than James Cagney. Taller than Mickey Rooney. Taller than Gary Cooper. Dammit, taller than Gary Copper. Taller than Vivien Leigh, I'm pretty sure about that.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 7/Apr/16
He could look 6ft up to 6ft1 really. More the former in later films and more the latter in early films. But reading his 6ft2 claim and then scrolling down and seeing that smirk on his face, lol who was he fooling with such an idiotic claim...
He could look 6ft up to 6ft1 really. More the former in later films and more the latter in early films. But reading his 6ft2 claim and then scrolling down and seeing that smirk on his face, lol who was he fooling with such an idiotic claim...
Tom said on 5/Apr/16
Gable wore lifts in his later films. Don't know about in the 1930s. He was too old for all the characters he played in the 1950s.
Gable wore lifts in his later films. Don't know about in the 1930s. He was too old for all the characters he played in the 1950s.
Arch Stanton said on 26/Mar/16
Frank2 said on 10/Mar/06
One thing is for certain and that's Gable wore lifts in Gone With the Wind. I know since I found those very shoes at the MGM prop and wardrobe auction. They had two-inch Cuban heels. Take a look at publicity stills and you'll notice them. I think Gable was closer to 5'11 1/2" or maybe a solid 6' when he was young. By the time he made The Tall Men at Fox he had shrunk to about 5'10 1/2". I knew the film editor who worked on the film as well as a fellow who worked in Fox Publicity. They both confirmed this. The man who was a publicist said that when he first met Gable he was surprised he wasn't this big 6'2" guy, but was instead only slightly taller than he was and this fellow I knew was about 5'10".
,
5'11.5 is a bit low but I reckon 6'0 is definitely arguable He can look 6'0.5 in some films/ photos, 6' flat in others, Perhaps he was Alex height and 6'0.25! I've been meaning to watch The Tall Stranger, will see that later.
Frank2 said on 10/Mar/06
One thing is for certain and that's Gable wore lifts in Gone With the Wind. I know since I found those very shoes at the MGM prop and wardrobe auction. They had two-inch Cuban heels. Take a look at publicity stills and you'll notice them. I think Gable was closer to 5'11 1/2" or maybe a solid 6' when he was young. By the time he made The Tall Men at Fox he had shrunk to about 5'10 1/2". I knew the film editor who worked on the film as well as a fellow who worked in Fox Publicity. They both confirmed this. The man who was a publicist said that when he first met Gable he was surprised he wasn't this big 6'2" guy, but was instead only slightly taller than he was and this fellow I knew was about 5'10".
,
5'11.5 is a bit low but I reckon 6'0 is definitely arguable He can look 6'0.5 in some films/ photos, 6' flat in others, Perhaps he was Alex height and 6'0.25! I've been meaning to watch The Tall Stranger, will see that later.
Arch Stanton said on 26/Mar/16
See him in San Francisco and Boom Town with Tracy for instance. Tracy didn't look like he was wearing lifts but you never know!
See him in San Francisco and Boom Town with Tracy for instance. Tracy didn't look like he was wearing lifts but you never know!
Arch Stanton said on 26/Mar/16
Click Here Another one with Tracy and Boyer. Boyer like Tracy could look 5'8 range at times!
Click Here Another one with Tracy and Boyer. Boyer like Tracy could look 5'8 range at times!
Arch Stanton said on 26/Mar/16
Rob, would you consider tweaking to 6'0.25? Check him out with Tracy and Charles Boyer here for instance Click Here Often looks no more than 6 ft. With Franchot Tone looked nothing over 6 ft. Slightly over 6 ft maybe, but 6'0.5-6'1 territory looks a little high.
Rob, would you consider tweaking to 6'0.25? Check him out with Tracy and Charles Boyer here for instance Click Here Often looks no more than 6 ft. With Franchot Tone looked nothing over 6 ft. Slightly over 6 ft maybe, but 6'0.5-6'1 territory looks a little high.
James said on 22/Mar/16
Wayne was taller than Cooper.
Wayne was taller than Cooper.
LoganNoll1996 said on 21/Mar/16
Clark Gable - 6 feet 0 inches
Humphrey Bogart - 5 feet 8.5 inches
Spencer Tracy - 5 feet 8.75 inches
Ingrid Bergman - 5 feet 9 inches
Jimmy Stewart - 6 feet 3 inches
Gary Cooper - 6 feet 3.75 inches
John Wayne - 6 feet 3.75 inches
As for the supposed 6'2 claim, I have to agree with Tom. Sure he had an ego but he was the ideal height for his generation, no need to inflate his height.
Clark Gable - 6 feet 0 inches
Humphrey Bogart - 5 feet 8.5 inches
Spencer Tracy - 5 feet 8.75 inches
Ingrid Bergman - 5 feet 9 inches
Jimmy Stewart - 6 feet 3 inches
Gary Cooper - 6 feet 3.75 inches
John Wayne - 6 feet 3.75 inches
As for the supposed 6'2 claim, I have to agree with Tom. Sure he had an ego but he was the ideal height for his generation, no need to inflate his height.
Tom said on 7/Mar/16
Gable might not have even made that remark in 1955. Gary Cooper said in 1960 that he had often been reported by the press as saying things he hadn't really said.
Gable might not have even made that remark in 1955. Gary Cooper said in 1960 that he had often been reported by the press as saying things he hadn't really said.
Nagi said on 7/Mar/16
I think Judd is right. Gable was just 6.0 feet at the beginning of his career, but just 5.11 at its end.
I think Judd is right. Gable was just 6.0 feet at the beginning of his career, but just 5.11 at its end.
Arch Stanton said on 5/Mar/16
Rob, can you switch some of the the "you may interested" ones here. Joan Crawford and Myrna Loy, by far his most prolific co-stars. I'd also argue that somebody would more likely be looking for Spencer Tracy and Franchot Tone than Cooper or Grant.
Rob, can you switch some of the the "you may interested" ones here. Joan Crawford and Myrna Loy, by far his most prolific co-stars. I'd also argue that somebody would more likely be looking for Spencer Tracy and Franchot Tone than Cooper or Grant.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 19/Feb/16
A solid 6ft guy in those days is what 6ft2 is now. But mind you even back then there were a lot 5ft10-11ers claiming it.
A solid 6ft guy in those days is what 6ft2 is now. But mind you even back then there were a lot 5ft10-11ers claiming it.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 17/Feb/16
Arrogant height claim...
Arrogant height claim...
LoganNoll1996 said on 31/Jan/16
The more I look at photos and videos of this guy the more I get the impression that he was 6 feet tall. That was the golden height back then(still is) and I can see a 6 foot guy of his appearance as being described "tall, dark, and handsome" a lot.
Clark Gable's height was 6 feet 0 inches.
The more I look at photos and videos of this guy the more I get the impression that he was 6 feet tall. That was the golden height back then(still is) and I can see a 6 foot guy of his appearance as being described "tall, dark, and handsome" a lot.
Clark Gable's height was 6 feet 0 inches.
Tom said on 18/Jan/16
Gable's official height was clearly a studio invention as he was not 6'1".
Gable's official height was clearly a studio invention as he was not 6'1".
charlie said on 16/Jan/16
Clark Gable and Franchot Tone stood eye to eye in mutiny on the bounty 1935 and Franchot Tone looked taller and he is listed at 5 foot 10 inches so maybe 5 foot 10 for Clark Gable is a little generous I would put Clark Gable at 5 foot 9 inches
Clark Gable and Franchot Tone stood eye to eye in mutiny on the bounty 1935 and Franchot Tone looked taller and he is listed at 5 foot 10 inches so maybe 5 foot 10 for Clark Gable is a little generous I would put Clark Gable at 5 foot 9 inches
charlie said on 16/Jan/16
Clark Gable was about 5 foot 10 in height
Clark Gable was about 5 foot 10 in height
LoganNoll1996 said on 1/Dec/15
Figured I'd share this photo. Clark Gable and Gary Cooper in dress shoes.
Click Here
Figured I'd share this photo. Clark Gable and Gary Cooper in dress shoes.
Click Here
Larry said on 18/Sep/15
Gable had severe back problems in the last years of his life, so he may have only looked about 5'10" in 1960.
Gable had severe back problems in the last years of his life, so he may have only looked about 5'10" in 1960.
Larry said on 16/Sep/15
Gable wore built up shoes in the 1950s, don't know if he did earlier.
Gable wore built up shoes in the 1950s, don't know if he did earlier.
Larry said on 10/Sep/15
Gable stood on a box to look taller than Robert Ryan in "The Tall Men". You could see that Gable's knees were much higher up than Ryan's.
Gable stood on a box to look taller than Robert Ryan in "The Tall Men". You could see that Gable's knees were much higher up than Ryan's.
MrTBlack said on 17/Jul/15
@Rampage
6'1" is most overstated height IMO. I'm a hair over 6'2" and guys at my work claim 6'1" and most of them were really 5'10.5-6'0" tops. Some were even shorter than the listed range I put!
@Rampage
6'1" is most overstated height IMO. I'm a hair over 6'2" and guys at my work claim 6'1" and most of them were really 5'10.5-6'0" tops. Some were even shorter than the listed range I put!
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 15/Jul/15
Rob, is 185cm possible?
He really does look it in his early stuff.
Rob, is 185cm possible?
He really does look it in his early stuff.
Arch Stanton said on 7/Apr/15
@Steve In some scenes in Boom Town too Gable could look only 2 inches taller than Tracy. Now Tacy was nothing over 5 ft 9. Gable could often look a good inch shorter than listed here, then other times he could look near 6'1".
@Steve In some scenes in Boom Town too Gable could look only 2 inches taller than Tracy. Now Tacy was nothing over 5 ft 9. Gable could often look a good inch shorter than listed here, then other times he could look near 6'1".
Sam said on 6/Apr/15
Yeah, I agree Tracy held his own much more than you'd expect with Gable. Although in his 60s I think, by Run Silent Run Deep and Tall Men he still hadn't seem lose height with age.
Yeah, I agree Tracy held his own much more than you'd expect with Gable. Although in his 60s I think, by Run Silent Run Deep and Tall Men he still hadn't seem lose height with age.
Steve said on 3/Apr/15
I'm still puzzled by Gable only appearing to be an inch and a half taller than Spencer Tracy in San Francisco. I'm sure Tracy was no more than 5'9". Tracy doesn't appear to be wearing lifts. There are wide shots where the two men look to be close to the same height.
I'm still puzzled by Gable only appearing to be an inch and a half taller than Spencer Tracy in San Francisco. I'm sure Tracy was no more than 5'9". Tracy doesn't appear to be wearing lifts. There are wide shots where the two men look to be close to the same height.
Sam said on 1/Apr/15
Must have been a small box if he did...but if you watch the film Ryan appears to be the same height or shorter than Gable when in reality he seems to have been at least 3 inches taller.
Must have been a small box if he did...but if you watch the film Ryan appears to be the same height or shorter than Gable when in reality he seems to have been at least 3 inches taller.
Steve said on 31/Mar/15
I don't believe Gable stood on a box.
I don't believe Gable stood on a box.
Sam said on 30/Mar/15
Anyone know if the trivia on the site that shall not be named that during a scene in The Tall Men, Gable stood on a box to look taller than Robert Ryan. For sure they did do a good job suggesting Gable was at least equal to Ryan in height. Although some of the scenery was beautiful Tall Men was a pretty boring western.
Anyone know if the trivia on the site that shall not be named that during a scene in The Tall Men, Gable stood on a box to look taller than Robert Ryan. For sure they did do a good job suggesting Gable was at least equal to Ryan in height. Although some of the scenery was beautiful Tall Men was a pretty boring western.
Arch Stanton said on 29/Mar/15
Rob can you add Mutiny on the Bounty, Boom Town, Mogambo, The Tall Men, Command Decision, and Saratoga ?
Command Decision sounds like it might have had Seagal in it!
Rob can you add Mutiny on the Bounty, Boom Town, Mogambo, The Tall Men, Command Decision, and Saratoga ?
Command Decision sounds like it might have had Seagal in it!
Arch Stanton said on 29/Mar/15
I saw Boom Town the other day and Gable was calling Tracy "shortie" in it. Made me laugh as in some scenes he only looked 2-3 inches taller! I suspect it was an in joke and Tracy was wearing lifts through part of it though. There is a scene at the end where they're walking and Gable looked nearer 5 inches taller than Tracy. So I was thinking weak 6 ft through much of the film but when you saw them walk presumably Tracy forgot his lifts. 6'0.5 think is OK, but for some reason he could often look max 6'0.
I saw Boom Town the other day and Gable was calling Tracy "shortie" in it. Made me laugh as in some scenes he only looked 2-3 inches taller! I suspect it was an in joke and Tracy was wearing lifts through part of it though. There is a scene at the end where they're walking and Gable looked nearer 5 inches taller than Tracy. So I was thinking weak 6 ft through much of the film but when you saw them walk presumably Tracy forgot his lifts. 6'0.5 think is OK, but for some reason he could often look max 6'0.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 15/Feb/15
184cm is still considered tall now. It just gets undermined because men who are really just below 6ft are claiming 6ft1
184cm is still considered tall now. It just gets undermined because men who are really just below 6ft are claiming 6ft1
Steve said on 13/Feb/15
Also, In just about every photo taken with Gary Cooper, Gable is several inches shorter. If he had been 6'1" there wouldn't have been a four to five inch difference in height. Check this out
Click Here
Also, In just about every photo taken with Gary Cooper, Gable is several inches shorter. If he had been 6'1" there wouldn't have been a four to five inch difference in height. Check this out
Click Here
MrTBlack said on 27/Jan/15
Hudson is probably 6'7" in his cowboy boots. He even claimed 6'5" but said he shrunk to 6'4" and put 6'4" on his papers.
Hudson is probably 6'7" in his cowboy boots. He even claimed 6'5" but said he shrunk to 6'4" and put 6'4" on his papers.
Eric said on 30/Dec/14
In one movie, Rock Hudson played with Murray Rose, an Olympic swimmer whose height I know, 6'1''. And Hudson was neatly taller than him. I believe he was 6'4'' as it is said commonly. Gary Cooper was 6'3''.
In one movie, Rock Hudson played with Murray Rose, an Olympic swimmer whose height I know, 6'1''. And Hudson was neatly taller than him. I believe he was 6'4'' as it is said commonly. Gary Cooper was 6'3''.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 20/Nov/14
Click Here
For starters, I think it's safe to say that C. Aubrey Smith was quite possibly nearer 6ft3 than 6ft2
Click Here
For starters, I think it's safe to say that C. Aubrey Smith was quite possibly nearer 6ft3 than 6ft2
Judd said on 20/Nov/14
i assess him at 6'0"...6'0" in the first half of 20th century was considered tall, and Gable never gave me the idea to be a giant, but just medium-tall...i would say a strong 6'0" when he portrayed the first roles, and about 5'11" in the last ones...
i assess him at 6'0"...6'0" in the first half of 20th century was considered tall, and Gable never gave me the idea to be a giant, but just medium-tall...i would say a strong 6'0" when he portrayed the first roles, and about 5'11" in the last ones...
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 18/Nov/14
Hudson could look near 6ft6 at times. Gable could have been 6ft2 in shoes
Hudson could look near 6ft6 at times. Gable could have been 6ft2 in shoes
Arch Stanton said on 18/Nov/14
The article also claims John Wayne and Victor Mature are the same height and under 6'3 LMAO. Anybody who's seen a few John Wayne westerns known that he generally looked 1.5-2 inches taller than Ward Bond who himself edged out Mature in My Darling Clementine.
The article also claims John Wayne and Victor Mature are the same height and under 6'3 LMAO. Anybody who's seen a few John Wayne westerns known that he generally looked 1.5-2 inches taller than Ward Bond who himself edged out Mature in My Darling Clementine.
Arch Stanton said on 18/Nov/14
LMAO, great find Rob. LOL so they're basically claiming Fred McMurray was taller than Rock Hudson!! In reality Rock was a weak 6'5" and McMurray struggling with a flat 6'3! The biggest laugh I got though is from the "Bing Crosby is 5'10 and a half"!! I'm guessing he paid them to say that, he wouldn't even reach that in his expensive customs!! Yeah Sam 6;2" for Gable is a joke, but he had a huge ego as Rampage says. In fact out of all the old Hollywood stars I'd say this guy tops the list.
LMAO, great find Rob. LOL so they're basically claiming Fred McMurray was taller than Rock Hudson!! In reality Rock was a weak 6'5" and McMurray struggling with a flat 6'3! The biggest laugh I got though is from the "Bing Crosby is 5'10 and a half"!! I'm guessing he paid them to say that, he wouldn't even reach that in his expensive customs!! Yeah Sam 6;2" for Gable is a joke, but he had a huge ego as Rampage says. In fact out of all the old Hollywood stars I'd say this guy tops the list.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 14/Nov/14
This guy had some major ego issues, though
This guy had some major ego issues, though
Sam said on 21/Apr/14
That article's a great find but full of falacies, as Rob already knows. The only quote is from Gable at 6'2", stating that he's an inch under Cooper, which is hilarious when they're compared to each other. Certainly fuels the Wayne-shrinkers though, because it claims him as under 6'3". Even their stab at Fred MacMurray as 6'4" was off. Maybe they were shrinking Hudson due to his in-house reputation as someone of the other persuasion and Gable's reputation as someone who had an adversion to such folks.
That article's a great find but full of falacies, as Rob already knows. The only quote is from Gable at 6'2", stating that he's an inch under Cooper, which is hilarious when they're compared to each other. Certainly fuels the Wayne-shrinkers though, because it claims him as under 6'3". Even their stab at Fred MacMurray as 6'4" was off. Maybe they were shrinking Hudson due to his in-house reputation as someone of the other persuasion and Gable's reputation as someone who had an adversion to such folks.
Mr. Kaplan said on 19/Apr/14
This article is full of crap. They also have Alan Ladd at 5'8" and Bing Crosby at 5'10.5"!
This article is full of crap. They also have Alan Ladd at 5'8" and Bing Crosby at 5'10.5"!
Editor Rob said on 19/Apr/14
This is an interesting article to read: Click Here
The first time I've ever heard of Rock Hudson being described as being 6ft 4 in 2 inch lifts...it's like a line you might occasionaly read from a visitor on celebheights, but it's 60 years earlier :)
This is an interesting article to read: Click Here
The first time I've ever heard of Rock Hudson being described as being 6ft 4 in 2 inch lifts...it's like a line you might occasionaly read from a visitor on celebheights, but it's 60 years earlier :)
Arch Stanton said on 17/Mar/14
I disagree that Gable was the greatest of all stars!! No way. One of the most overrated stars IMO with one of the most colossal egos in classic Hollywood!! He was a good actor and watchable in some of his films but he was nowhere near as great as the likes of Jimmy Stewart and Cary Grant.
I disagree that Gable was the greatest of all stars!! No way. One of the most overrated stars IMO with one of the most colossal egos in classic Hollywood!! He was a good actor and watchable in some of his films but he was nowhere near as great as the likes of Jimmy Stewart and Cary Grant.
James said on 27/Dec/13
I'm not sure Gable could have won a fight in real life because he smoked nearly 80 unfiltered cigarettes a day, and was an alcoholic.
I'm not sure Gable could have won a fight in real life because he smoked nearly 80 unfiltered cigarettes a day, and was an alcoholic.
LJM said on 26/Dec/13
Gable maybe was an inch, maybe two inches, shorter than string beans Jimmie Stewart or Coop. If that's the standard. But seeing them side by side, Gable is at least 6 ft and almost certainly more in height, and more to the point is a solid wide-shouldered rock who could deck these other guys in one instant if needs be. In terms of sheer presence, there's a reason Gable was the greatest of all the great stars, and the King.
Gable maybe was an inch, maybe two inches, shorter than string beans Jimmie Stewart or Coop. If that's the standard. But seeing them side by side, Gable is at least 6 ft and almost certainly more in height, and more to the point is a solid wide-shouldered rock who could deck these other guys in one instant if needs be. In terms of sheer presence, there's a reason Gable was the greatest of all the great stars, and the King.
Arch Stanton said on 19/Dec/13
If you haven't seen the film here's a still Click Here . That was how the height difference appeared in the film.
If you haven't seen the film here's a still Click Here . That was how the height difference appeared in the film.
Arch Stanton said on 19/Dec/13
Mmm Rob have you seen San Francisco? Bizarrely he only looks about 1.5 inches taller than Spencer Tracy in it. Was Tracy wearing lifts? Proportionally he did look about 184 but seeing him next to Tracy if Tracy was 5'9" he looks 5'11" tops. Tracy had to have been wearing lifts.
Editor Rob
Mmm Rob have you seen San Francisco? Bizarrely he only looks about 1.5 inches taller than Spencer Tracy in it. Was Tracy wearing lifts? Proportionally he did look about 184 but seeing him next to Tracy if Tracy was 5'9" he looks 5'11" tops. Tracy had to have been wearing lifts.
Editor Rob can't recall seeing the film, but Gable
Arch Stanton said on 19/Dec/13
Does look near 6'1" in San Francisco.
Does look near 6'1" in San Francisco.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 18/Dec/13
Solid 6ft1/185cm peak, not a hair less. Towards the end of his life he looked about an inch below that and a lot heavier than 195lbs. I'd say about 230lbs at least. Very much a shell of his former self. Dreadful to see in his last movies.
Solid 6ft1/185cm peak, not a hair less. Towards the end of his life he looked about an inch below that and a lot heavier than 195lbs. I'd say about 230lbs at least. Very much a shell of his former self. Dreadful to see in his last movies.
Arch Stanton said on 18/Oct/13
Jim, Sterling Hayden was a head taller than Frank Sinatra in Suddenly. No way did Hayden have a full head on Gable! I've never seen him look under 6 ft peak.
Jim, Sterling Hayden was a head taller than Frank Sinatra in Suddenly. No way did Hayden have a full head on Gable! I've never seen him look under 6 ft peak.
JimMorrison said on 30/Aug/13
Gable was five inches shorter than Gary Cooper who was at least a strong six three. Gable was 5-11 max. Hayden was a head taller than him.
Gable was five inches shorter than Gary Cooper who was at least a strong six three. Gable was 5-11 max. Hayden was a head taller than him.
Arch Stanton said on 23/Aug/13
5'3" I'd say was nearer. I'll try to watch Cleopatra sometime.
5'3" I'd say was nearer. I'll try to watch Cleopatra sometime.
Arch Stanton said on 22/Aug/13
Rob is there any chance you can add Claudette Colbert? I'm about to give up with requesting heights for good! She was listed at 5'4.5" I think but didn't really look it in my opinion. In It happened one night Gable even said she looked small. I'd knock a good inch off of that. Nearer 5'3" I'd say.
Rob have you seen Mutiny on the Bounty? He looked max two inches taller than Franchot Tone who was listed at 5'10". Tone could look nearer 5'11" though in my opinion.
Editor Rob
Rob is there any chance you can add Claudette Colbert? I'm about to give up with requesting heights for good! She was listed at 5'4.5" I think but didn't really look it in my opinion. In It happened one night Gable even said she looked small. I'd knock a good inch off of that. Nearer 5'3" I'd say.
Rob have you seen Mutiny on the Bounty? He looked max two inches taller than Franchot Tone who was listed at 5'10". Tone could look nearer 5'11" though in my opinion.
Editor Rob she got described 5ft 3, 4 and 4.5...I'm not sure which
EdgarHernández said on 15/Aug/13
Whit Gary cooper he is wearing white dress shoes and cooper is wearing boots.
Whit Gary cooper he is wearing white dress shoes and cooper is wearing boots.
Rampage(-_-_-)Clover said on 20/Jul/13
I think the full 6ft1. I have hard time believing he was shorter than Cary Grant
I think the full 6ft1. I have hard time believing he was shorter than Cary Grant
Sam said on 19/Jun/13
Next to Spencer Tracy, he looks at max 3 inches taller, not 4 inches taller.
Click Here
Also close in height here to 6'0" listed William Powell:
Click Here
However, the plot thickens because he he looks the same height as 6'1" listed Burt Lancaster, who was still equal to 6'1" Kevin Costner at nearly 80:
Click Here
Next to Spencer Tracy, he looks at max 3 inches taller, not 4 inches taller.
Click Here
Also close in height here to 6'0" listed William Powell:
Click Here
However, the plot thickens because he he looks the same height as 6'1" listed Burt Lancaster, who was still equal to 6'1" Kevin Costner at nearly 80:
Click Here
Sam said on 14/Jun/13
Looks like 183 cm at best next to Gary Cooper...definitely not 6'1".
Looks like 183 cm at best next to Gary Cooper...definitely not 6'1".
Knowitall said on 1/Jun/13
Well, he sure looked short next to six foot three Gary Cooper:
Click Here
I see almost a five inch difference.
Well, he sure looked short next to six foot three Gary Cooper:
Click Here
I see almost a five inch difference.
Arch Stanton said on 29/May/13
Well, he has about 2 inches on Leslie Howard who was listed at 5'10 1/2...
Well, he has about 2 inches on Leslie Howard who was listed at 5'10 1/2...
Arch Stanton said on 29/May/13
Mmm, doesn't really look 6 ft 1 in Gone with the Wind, doesn't look over 6 ft.
Mmm, doesn't really look 6 ft 1 in Gone with the Wind, doesn't look over 6 ft.
Knowitall said on 26/Feb/13
If you draw a horizontal line at the bottom where their feet meet the ground and a the top right above their heads, they're just about the same height. Also, I've seen other photos taken on the set showing Clift being as tall as Gable. Clift tended to slouch all the time. But when he stood up straight he looked as tall as some actors listed as being six feet.
If you draw a horizontal line at the bottom where their feet meet the ground and a the top right above their heads, they're just about the same height. Also, I've seen other photos taken on the set showing Clift being as tall as Gable. Clift tended to slouch all the time. But when he stood up straight he looked as tall as some actors listed as being six feet.
Sam said on 25/Feb/13
They are standing on a hill, Clift at the highest position. Weird picture, shows that Wallach probably really cleared 5'7" mark once, after years of aging he has come to look so tiny heightwise.
They are standing on a hill, Clift at the highest position. Weird picture, shows that Wallach probably really cleared 5'7" mark once, after years of aging he has come to look so tiny heightwise.
Knowitall said on 23/Feb/13
Explain why Gable isn't taller than five feet ten Montgomery Clift:
Click Here
Explain why Gable isn't taller than five feet ten Montgomery Clift:
Click Here
johnny said on 30/Oct/12
@edgarhernandez - please, get a life! ;-)
@edgarhernandez - please, get a life! ;-)
EdgarHernandez said on 19/Oct/12
Click Here
clark has an edge on robert montgomery who is at the same height in this site,
and for gary cooper, he has a very long thin body, that make his look taller:
Click Here
also he had in that photo boots, Clark have a very flat kind of shoes:
Click Here
in this other one the diference is no that impresive, notice the top of their heads, put on top of that the ground
Click Here
here whit jimmy stewart, notice how 2 "6ft 3" guys look diferent with clark, i always suspect that cooper was taller than 6ft 3
Click Here
draw a line on top of their heads, is between 2.5 to 3 inches, and jimmy himself descrived his height at 6ft 3.5, so 6ft .5 for clark is more than fair.
Click Here
clark has an edge on robert montgomery who is at the same height in this site,
and for gary cooper, he has a very long thin body, that make his look taller:
Click Here
also he had in that photo boots, Clark have a very flat kind of shoes:
Click Here
in this other one the diference is no that impresive, notice the top of their heads, put on top of that the ground
Click Here
here whit jimmy stewart, notice how 2 "6ft 3" guys look diferent with clark, i always suspect that cooper was taller than 6ft 3
Click Here
draw a line on top of their heads, is between 2.5 to 3 inches, and jimmy himself descrived his height at 6ft 3.5, so 6ft .5 for clark is more than fair.
Jake: 1.82 m-- 1.83 m-- 1.84 m said on 18/Aug/12
No, he was much taller than 5ft 10.5, 184- 185 cm was his height.
No, he was much taller than 5ft 10.5, 184- 185 cm was his height.
Kevin said on 16/Aug/12
Gable when standing next to Gary Cooper was considerably shorter . Cooper was roughly 6'3" in his prime . Gable was between 5'10" and 5'11" which was quite tall for his time and is still taller than the average American male today .
Gable when standing next to Gary Cooper was considerably shorter . Cooper was roughly 6'3" in his prime . Gable was between 5'10" and 5'11" which was quite tall for his time and is still taller than the average American male today .
Patrick said on 28/Dec/11
I never heard or read that Mr.R but though almost 60, i am not of that generation! I always saw the King as being 6'1. His built and constitution were far above average; look at his neck and hands too. Facing slender Lancaster, he looks at least as tall and probably taller, the latter looking as tall as 6'1 Kevin Costner while being quite old at 76.
I never heard or read that Mr.R but though almost 60, i am not of that generation! I always saw the King as being 6'1. His built and constitution were far above average; look at his neck and hands too. Facing slender Lancaster, he looks at least as tall and probably taller, the latter looking as tall as 6'1 Kevin Costner while being quite old at 76.
Mr. R said on 22/Dec/11
Does anyone remember Clark being listed at 6-4 when Gone With the Wind became popular again?
Does anyone remember Clark being listed at 6-4 when Gone With the Wind became popular again?
maio said on 20/Dec/11
according with rob, Clark Gable was 6 ft 0.5 in/184 cm.
according with rob, Clark Gable was 6 ft 0.5 in/184 cm.
Jay said on 4/Aug/11
185 centimeters minimum for Gable as he was still as tall or taller than Lancaster in Run Silent Run Deep at age 57.
185 centimeters minimum for Gable as he was still as tall or taller than Lancaster in Run Silent Run Deep at age 57.
john said on 11/Jun/11
the eptitome of the alpha male...tall dark and strong minded.....6"1
the eptitome of the alpha male...tall dark and strong minded.....6"1
bgsdooley said on 6/Jun/11
Everybody shrinks with age. I was over 5'10" when I was younger and am now perhaps 5'8". Yes I am now 65 years old but again everyone shrinks with age.
Everybody shrinks with age. I was over 5'10" when I was younger and am now perhaps 5'8". Yes I am now 65 years old but again everyone shrinks with age.
EdgarHernandez said on 23/Jan/11
clint eastwood is an awesome director and was a big guy, gary cooper had natural talent and was big, i will dont considered tom cruise talent at all, charismatic yes, genius, no.
clint eastwood is an awesome director and was a big guy, gary cooper had natural talent and was big, i will dont considered tom cruise talent at all, charismatic yes, genius, no.
krazy krippled! said on 1/Jan/11
nowadays, american kids are usually taller, while american actors are usually shorter, maybe serious talent comes in small packages?
nowadays, american kids are usually taller, while american actors are usually shorter, maybe serious talent comes in small packages?
EdgarHernandez said on 24/Nov/10
searchin i found omething very interestin, here is him whit katerine hepburn, who is straight as is human posible and clark who is sluchi to reach the fire of his lighter, both old, but i thinck still at his prime.
Click Here
clark look between 2 or 2.5 inches taller, whit a horrible sluch, the angle is nearly neutral.
yes you will ask abaut his shoes, well look this one clark whit fair falt shoes(well had very little heel) and hepburn whit generour heel, like 2 or 3 inches.
Click Here
hepburn is listend here as 5ft 7.5, but if you want, he was for age 5ft 7 only, but even whit only 2 heels, making her 5ft 10, clark is still much taller, whit not efort apart.
searchin i found omething very interestin, here is him whit katerine hepburn, who is straight as is human posible and clark who is sluchi to reach the fire of his lighter, both old, but i thinck still at his prime.
Click Here
clark look between 2 or 2.5 inches taller, whit a horrible sluch, the angle is nearly neutral.
yes you will ask abaut his shoes, well look this one clark whit fair falt shoes(well had very little heel) and hepburn whit generour heel, like 2 or 3 inches.
Click Here
hepburn is listend here as 5ft 7.5, but if you want, he was for age 5ft 7 only, but even whit only 2 heels, making her 5ft 10, clark is still much taller, whit not efort apart.
Frank2 said on 9/Jul/09
No way was he that short. Here's why. In MANHATTAN MELODRAMA Gable was at least two inches taller than 5'10" William Powell. In RUN SILENT RUN DEEP, Gable was two to three inches taller than 5'10" Jack Warden. In TEACHER'S PET, Gable was the exact same height as 6' 1" Gig Young. Gable towered over Monty Clift in THE MISFITS. Clift who was 5'10" peak had dropped down to about 5'9" by the time of that film. With the exception of GONE WITH THE WIND, I never spotted lifts on Gable. I'd venture to guess that Gable was most likely 6'1" peak and by the mid 1950's was 6' even. Back when I worked at MGM Studios and they auctioned off props and wardrobe, I found a suit hand tailored for Gable. I decided to put it on. He must have had extremely long arms since my hands barely came out of the cuffs of the sleeves. When I put on his slacks, I had to raise the waist up to my chest level so the pants didn't drag on the floor. And I'm 5'11"!
No way was he that short. Here's why. In MANHATTAN MELODRAMA Gable was at least two inches taller than 5'10" William Powell. In RUN SILENT RUN DEEP, Gable was two to three inches taller than 5'10" Jack Warden. In TEACHER'S PET, Gable was the exact same height as 6' 1" Gig Young. Gable towered over Monty Clift in THE MISFITS. Clift who was 5'10" peak had dropped down to about 5'9" by the time of that film. With the exception of GONE WITH THE WIND, I never spotted lifts on Gable. I'd venture to guess that Gable was most likely 6'1" peak and by the mid 1950's was 6' even. Back when I worked at MGM Studios and they auctioned off props and wardrobe, I found a suit hand tailored for Gable. I decided to put it on. He must have had extremely long arms since my hands barely came out of the cuffs of the sleeves. When I put on his slacks, I had to raise the waist up to my chest level so the pants didn't drag on the floor. And I'm 5'11"!
gregg said on 7/Jul/09
During the war, a friend of mine was shipped across the Atlantic with Gable on board the same transport. He struck up a friendship with "The King." My friend told me that Gable was about my height--that would make Gable 5'10".
During the war, a friend of mine was shipped across the Atlantic with Gable on board the same transport. He struck up a friendship with "The King." My friend told me that Gable was about my height--that would make Gable 5'10".
andrew said on 8/Jun/09
5'10"? Haha. In 'Bounty' he towers over a lot of people barefoot...
5'10"? Haha. In 'Bounty' he towers over a lot of people barefoot...
Dean said on 21/Apr/09
Gable was approximately 5'10" and on film wore a slightly higher heel on his shoes . One has to remember that for his time 5'10" was considered quite tall and his fellow actors and actresses of that era were consideralbly shorter . Joan Crawford stood barely 5'. There is a well publicized photo of Gable and Gary Cooper hunting together at Sun Valley and the height difference between the two is considerable . One may also want to consider that the average height of the American male today is still only 5'9" .
Gable was approximately 5'10" and on film wore a slightly higher heel on his shoes . One has to remember that for his time 5'10" was considered quite tall and his fellow actors and actresses of that era were consideralbly shorter . Joan Crawford stood barely 5'. There is a well publicized photo of Gable and Gary Cooper hunting together at Sun Valley and the height difference between the two is considerable . One may also want to consider that the average height of the American male today is still only 5'9" .
Martin said on 14/Dec/08
He must be taller than 6'0.5". At least 6'1.5". Come on, look at his proportions!
He must be taller than 6'0.5". At least 6'1.5". Come on, look at his proportions!
Patrick said on 7/Nov/08
In the Gary Cooper page, he looks far shorter than that other great star if any.
If Clark was 6'1/5, so Gary was undoubtedly more than 6'3.
In the Gary Cooper page, he looks far shorter than that other great star if any.
If Clark was 6'1/5, so Gary was undoubtedly more than 6'3.
Hugh said on 20/Sep/08
Clark was a tall guy. I'd say 186-187cm. This is too low.
Clark was a tall guy. I'd say 186-187cm. This is too low.
Patrick said on 19/Aug/08
Clark Gable was bigger and higher than life. He had a mythological posture.
If you look at how the new Batman stands, you
Clark Gable was bigger and higher than life. He had a mythological posture.
If you look at how the new Batman stands, you
Joey said on 3/Aug/08
I just watched "It Happened One Night". He seemed unbelievably tall! He looked way over 6ft. Don't know if it's the suit, his posture or a combination of both but I was guessing throughout the entire movie that this guy's gotta be at least 6'4"! But I was quite surprised that he was below that.
I just watched "It Happened One Night". He seemed unbelievably tall! He looked way over 6ft. Don't know if it's the suit, his posture or a combination of both but I was guessing throughout the entire movie that this guy's gotta be at least 6'4"! But I was quite surprised that he was below that.
aqua said on 17/Jul/08
I don't want to bother you people but have you ever heard about PERSPECTIVE? estimating anything from pictures can be delusive, not to mention they used to manipulate lights and perspective a lot then, for me everything above 6ft is tall and i don't care if it's 6ft or 7ft. what's average now wasn't average then. oh well ;)
I don't want to bother you people but have you ever heard about PERSPECTIVE? estimating anything from pictures can be delusive, not to mention they used to manipulate lights and perspective a lot then, for me everything above 6ft is tall and i don't care if it's 6ft or 7ft. what's average now wasn't average then. oh well ;)
BK_Daniel said on 22/Jun/08
I think everyone agrees that he's a big dude, atleast 185 cms. In his prime he was probably close to 6'2".
I think everyone agrees that he's a big dude, atleast 185 cms. In his prime he was probably close to 6'2".
rob roy said on 20/Jun/08
i love watching old movies. but i dont like "gone with the wind" starred by clark gable. i think to me the movie is somewhat boring. can't believe my eyes when i saw the heroin ( i forgot her name ) walking in her all-white dress in a war torn place and not a single dirt is seen. nah. i cant believe such thing. as if she had just been in abc's "dancing with stars". i never finish watching it.
i love watching old movies. but i dont like "gone with the wind" starred by clark gable. i think to me the movie is somewhat boring. can't believe my eyes when i saw the heroin ( i forgot her name ) walking in her all-white dress in a war torn place and not a single dirt is seen. nah. i cant believe such thing. as if she had just been in abc's "dancing with stars". i never finish watching it.
Jackie said on 20/Sep/07
^Clark Gable by no means was a short man, but still he was no stranger to wearing lifts or high heeled boots or shoes. See this picture with Wallace Beery and Jean Harlow: Click Here
And also in Gone With The Wind he wore quite high heeled boots: Click Here Click Here
He did have a magnificent chest, though.
^Clark Gable by no means was a short man, but still he was no stranger to wearing lifts or high heeled boots or shoes. See this picture with Wallace Beery and Jean Harlow: Click Here
And also in Gone With The Wind he wore quite high heeled boots: Click Here Click Here
He did have a magnificent chest, though.
John Lucas said on 18/Sep/07
I met Clark Gable with my father in 1952 when I was thirteen years old. Mr. Gable, an astonishingly handsome middle-aged man at that time, was perhaps two inches taller than my father who was 5'11' in height. I was about 5'3'' at the time and Mr. Gable was surely nearly a foot taller than I, if memory serves me well. He was also quite large, with a big chest.
By the way, he did not stand on a box to kiss Vivien Leigh; it was the other way around. And Rhett's boots did not have lifts; those were pretty standard heels for dress or cowboy boots.
I met Clark Gable with my father in 1952 when I was thirteen years old. Mr. Gable, an astonishingly handsome middle-aged man at that time, was perhaps two inches taller than my father who was 5'11' in height. I was about 5'3'' at the time and Mr. Gable was surely nearly a foot taller than I, if memory serves me well. He was also quite large, with a big chest.
By the way, he did not stand on a box to kiss Vivien Leigh; it was the other way around. And Rhett's boots did not have lifts; those were pretty standard heels for dress or cowboy boots.
patrick said on 26/Feb/07
I read the same story about Lee Marvin meeting Gable and trying out his jacket; Sure, Lee was purposely exagerating because he was precisely treating the "what is a star" topic; I remember he added something about a young female extra who supposedly fainted in seeing "the King"; so, this one ran and tried to reanimate her; while he was succeeding, she awoke and what did she see then? Clark Gable and she fainted again! It was a magic time when living people were more than "people";It is not that different today except concerning the "general taste"; People now want cute and teenage men (and girls)NOT MATURE at all! That is why Jhonny Depp, Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Colin Farrell are the current stars; They would have then been relegated to secondary roles; Imagine them alongside Clark, Wayne, Mitchum etc.
When actors are tough now, they are either on TV and do not get the "first place" (Dennis Farina in "law & order") or play the vilains in movies (David Morse or so); At last, real tough guys are often somewhere crazy (for me !) as are Sean Penn or Mickey Rourke; The other are "gentle"!
At the time Clark Gable was a (deserved) star, nice guys like Spencer Tracy or James Stewart were able to credibly embody very tough and savage men; Clooney playing that or worse, J. Depp...to funny ! I think actors at the time,were not inspiring themselves with what was not considered as "an art"; The di their job and that was all; Now, all of these people are "so called" intellectuals who went to university and are sooo admiring not Gable or Wayne BUT ONLY Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro; Who currently, ever mentions Spencer Tracy among them? My best advice: READ THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY RAOUL WALSH WROTE IN THE 70ies OR SO. You will see what was a man at the time and why the 40ies films are what they are! Gable today would not even have been able to play an extra !
I read the same story about Lee Marvin meeting Gable and trying out his jacket; Sure, Lee was purposely exagerating because he was precisely treating the "what is a star" topic; I remember he added something about a young female extra who supposedly fainted in seeing "the King"; so, this one ran and tried to reanimate her; while he was succeeding, she awoke and what did she see then? Clark Gable and she fainted again! It was a magic time when living people were more than "people";It is not that different today except concerning the "general taste"; People now want cute and teenage men (and girls)NOT MATURE at all! That is why Jhonny Depp, Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Colin Farrell are the current stars; They would have then been relegated to secondary roles; Imagine them alongside Clark, Wayne, Mitchum etc.
When actors are tough now, they are either on TV and do not get the "first place" (Dennis Farina in "law & order") or play the vilains in movies (David Morse or so); At last, real tough guys are often somewhere crazy (for me !) as are Sean Penn or Mickey Rourke; The other are "gentle"!
At the time Clark Gable was a (deserved) star, nice guys like Spencer Tracy or James Stewart were able to credibly embody very tough and savage men; Clooney playing that or worse, J. Depp...to funny ! I think actors at the time,were not inspiring themselves with what was not considered as "an art"; The di their job and that was all; Now, all of these people are "so called" intellectuals who went to university and are sooo admiring not Gable or Wayne BUT ONLY Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro; Who currently, ever mentions Spencer Tracy among them? My best advice: READ THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY RAOUL WALSH WROTE IN THE 70ies OR SO. You will see what was a man at the time and why the 40ies films are what they are! Gable today would not even have been able to play an extra !
Brad said on 27/Aug/06
Read Burt Reynolds' account of meeting him when he first went to Hollywood.
Read Burt Reynolds' account of meeting him when he first went to Hollywood.
Anonymous said on 29/Jul/06
I read a Lee Marvin bio. in which there's a mention of Marvin as a young actor trying on a jacket that Gable wore in a movie. Supposedly the arms of the jacket came down to Marvin's knees. Gable was shorter than Marvin but he was very well built and broad shouldered. Marvin was self deprecating and I think he told the interviewer the story so as to say 'Clark Gable was a star. I'm just an ordinary mortal'. I don't know whether the story is true or not to be honest.
I read a Lee Marvin bio. in which there's a mention of Marvin as a young actor trying on a jacket that Gable wore in a movie. Supposedly the arms of the jacket came down to Marvin's knees. Gable was shorter than Marvin but he was very well built and broad shouldered. Marvin was self deprecating and I think he told the interviewer the story so as to say 'Clark Gable was a star. I'm just an ordinary mortal'. I don't know whether the story is true or not to be honest.
Frank2 said on 21/Jun/06
MGM publicity always stated that Gable was that height. I have no doubt he was about 6' when he was young. But I've seen him with other actors who I know are over 6' and Gable was usually shorter. He wasn't that much taller than 5'8" Spencer Tracy in San Francisco. Tracy must have worn the best lifts in the biz 'cause in that film I can't spot them. The two men are standing next to each other in long shots where you can see their feet. But then when Tracy co-starred with Gable in Boom Town he was a lot shorter. In that film Gable tells him he's wearing "Justin boots with four-inch heels."
MGM publicity always stated that Gable was that height. I have no doubt he was about 6' when he was young. But I've seen him with other actors who I know are over 6' and Gable was usually shorter. He wasn't that much taller than 5'8" Spencer Tracy in San Francisco. Tracy must have worn the best lifts in the biz 'cause in that film I can't spot them. The two men are standing next to each other in long shots where you can see their feet. But then when Tracy co-starred with Gable in Boom Town he was a lot shorter. In that film Gable tells him he's wearing "Justin boots with four-inch heels."
David said on 20/Jun/06
Here is a picture of Clark Gable signed to his father in which Gable says he is 6ft. 1in.
C:Documents and Settingsdk37805DesktopGable.jpg
Editor Rob
Here is a picture of Clark Gable signed to his father in which Gable says he is 6ft. 1in.
C:Documents and Settingsdk37805DesktopGable.jpg
Editor Rob try emailing it to me and I'll add it here...
jess said on 19/Jun/06
wow i thought he was alot taller. he always seemed to be on screen i thought he would be listed as 6'3" or 6'4". wonderful actor in any case
wow i thought he was alot taller. he always seemed to be on screen i thought he would be listed as 6'3" or 6'4". wonderful actor in any case
Frank2 said on 23/Apr/06
Well, looking at the photo, Gable is just as tall as Montgomery. Bob is standing erect and Gable is slouching a bit. Montgomery was about 5'11.5". So had Gable stood up straight he'd have been about the same height or slightly taller. Lionel is purposely trying to look short. Had he stood up straight he'd have appeared about 5'7" or three and a half inches shorter than Montgomery. Paul Muni was 5'8" and is obviously wearing lifts in his shoes. Gable is dressed in the torn outfit he wore after the earthquake sequence in San Francisco. I believe Montgomery is wearing his outfit for Trouble for Two. Lionel is wearing the costume for "Devil Doll" a film in which he appeared as a man who seeks revenge on those he believes wronged him in the past. He hides out wearing women's cloths while he gets his revenge using hypnotized living dolls he's created who kill using poisonous needles. I kid you not! Paul Muni is dressed in costume for his role in The Good Earth. All were being made at the same time at MGM. Circa 1936.
Well, looking at the photo, Gable is just as tall as Montgomery. Bob is standing erect and Gable is slouching a bit. Montgomery was about 5'11.5". So had Gable stood up straight he'd have been about the same height or slightly taller. Lionel is purposely trying to look short. Had he stood up straight he'd have appeared about 5'7" or three and a half inches shorter than Montgomery. Paul Muni was 5'8" and is obviously wearing lifts in his shoes. Gable is dressed in the torn outfit he wore after the earthquake sequence in San Francisco. I believe Montgomery is wearing his outfit for Trouble for Two. Lionel is wearing the costume for "Devil Doll" a film in which he appeared as a man who seeks revenge on those he believes wronged him in the past. He hides out wearing women's cloths while he gets his revenge using hypnotized living dolls he's created who kill using poisonous needles. I kid you not! Paul Muni is dressed in costume for his role in The Good Earth. All were being made at the same time at MGM. Circa 1936.
larry said on 21/Mar/06
Thanks Frank2!
Thanks Frank2!
Frank2 said on 20/Mar/06
Unfortunately, I never met Gable or even saw him. Ditto that with Robert Ryan who was at least 6'3". Great actor!! I did meet and talk with Cam Mitchell. He was at least two inches shorter than me so I'd say he was around 5'9". In The Tall Men he was shorter by at least two inches than Gable. One famous actor I did see in the flesh was Bogart. I was only about 9 at the time. I was with my dad eating lunch at the famed Brown Derby in Beverly Hills and Bogie was seated across from us in another booth with a group of people. He looked terrible. Very Frail and sickly. At the time I had no idea who he was until my father told me. On the way out we stopped and said hello. He died not long after from cancer.
Unfortunately, I never met Gable or even saw him. Ditto that with Robert Ryan who was at least 6'3". Great actor!! I did meet and talk with Cam Mitchell. He was at least two inches shorter than me so I'd say he was around 5'9". In The Tall Men he was shorter by at least two inches than Gable. One famous actor I did see in the flesh was Bogart. I was only about 9 at the time. I was with my dad eating lunch at the famed Brown Derby in Beverly Hills and Bogie was seated across from us in another booth with a group of people. He looked terrible. Very Frail and sickly. At the time I had no idea who he was until my father told me. On the way out we stopped and said hello. He died not long after from cancer.
larry said on 19/Mar/06
I recall Gable looking a good bit shorter than Robert Ryan in THE TALL MEN, but there were few scenes where they showed them together. Frank2: Did you ever see Robert Ryan or Cameron Mitchell?
I recall Gable looking a good bit shorter than Robert Ryan in THE TALL MEN, but there were few scenes where they showed them together. Frank2: Did you ever see Robert Ryan or Cameron Mitchell?
S said on 17/Mar/06
He looked very tall in 'The Misfits' with Marilyn Monroe (5'5 1/2"), even when she was wearing heels.
He looked very tall in 'The Misfits' with Marilyn Monroe (5'5 1/2"), even when she was wearing heels.
Frank2 said on 10/Mar/06
One thing is for certain and that's Gable wore lifts in Gone With the Wind. I know since I found those very shoes at the MGM prop and wardrobe auction. They had two-inch Cuban heels. Take a look at publicity stills and you'll notice them. I think Gable was closer to 5'11 1/2" or maybe a solid 6' when he was young. By the time he made The Tall Men at Fox he had shrunk to about 5'10 1/2". I knew the film editor who worked on the film as well as a fellow who worked in Fox Publicity. They both confirmed this. The man who was a publicist said that when he first met Gable he was surprised he wasn't this big 6'2" guy, but was instead only slightly taller than he was and this fellow I knew was about 5'10".
One thing is for certain and that's Gable wore lifts in Gone With the Wind. I know since I found those very shoes at the MGM prop and wardrobe auction. They had two-inch Cuban heels. Take a look at publicity stills and you'll notice them. I think Gable was closer to 5'11 1/2" or maybe a solid 6' when he was young. By the time he made The Tall Men at Fox he had shrunk to about 5'10 1/2". I knew the film editor who worked on the film as well as a fellow who worked in Fox Publicity. They both confirmed this. The man who was a publicist said that when he first met Gable he was surprised he wasn't this big 6'2" guy, but was instead only slightly taller than he was and this fellow I knew was about 5'10".
sam said on 15/Dec/05
Leigh was the one standing on a box to be in the same frame as Gable, not the other way around (I've seen a picture of that myself).
Leigh was the one standing on a box to be in the same frame as Gable, not the other way around (I've seen a picture of that myself).
fiveten said on 7/Jun/05
i'm in film...and one of my teachers showed us a picture of clark gable standing on an apple box to achieve the towering presence he had over leigh....theres no way he was 6'1... she was only 5'3 anyways.
i'm in film...and one of my teachers showed us a picture of clark gable standing on an apple box to achieve the towering presence he had over leigh....theres no way he was 6'1... she was only 5'3 anyways.
Heights are barefeet estimates, derived from quotations, official websites, agency resumes, in person encounters with actors at conventions and pictures/films.
Other vital statistics like weight or shoe size measurements have been sourced from newspapers, books, resumes or social media.
Celebrity Fan Photos and Agency Pictures of stars are © to their respective owners.