Was John Wayne Tall for His Time Period?

John Wayne, one of the most iconic figures in the golden era of Hollywood, was not just a legendary actor; he was also known for his imposing stature. One common misconception about John Wayne is whether he was tall for his time. In reality, Wayne was indeed taller than the average person during his era. However, it's worth noting that he wore special boots to further increase his height and project an even more commanding presence on screen.

John Wayne's Actual Height

John Wayne's real height was 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm), which is above the average height for men during his time. The average height for American men in the 1930s, when he was starting his career, was around 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) to 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) (source: ). His height, while significant, was not overly remarkable, but it certainly set him apart on the silver screen.

Did John Wayne Wear Special Boots?

While Wayne's actual height was impressive, there's a legend about him wearing special boots to make him appear even taller. This belief has become a part of Hollywood lore, with many people assuming that Wayne's image was further enhanced through footwear modifications.

It is true that Wayne wore boots with extra material under his feet, known as 'height-boosting boots.' These were not necessarily to make him taller but to ensure his feet were comfortable and supported during long filming sessions. Often, actors had to stand for extended periods, and the extra padding in the boots provided the necessary comfort. Additionally, the boots were adjusted to provide a consistent and professional look during shooting. This is a common practice in the film industry, as it helps actors perform better and maintain their comfort throughout the day.

John Wayne's Height on Screen

While Wayne's tall stature was appreciated in many roles, his use of the height-boosting boots may have further contributed to his larger-than-life image on screen. This technique, along with his commanding presence and excellent acting skills, made him appear even more authoritative and charismatic to audiences. His ability to portray powerful figures, such as the quintessential American hero, benefitted greatly from his increased height, especially in films such as The Quiet Man and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.

Impact of John Wayne's Height on Hollywood

John Wayne's height and the use of special boots to enhance his image were not mere coincidences; they played a significant role in his success and enduring legacy. Many of the most iconic film scenes featuring Wayne were shot with the extra boost, giving his characters a sense of power and dominance that resonated with audiences. His appearance and demeanor on screen were crucial in creating the image of a rugged, tough, and heroic American figure that audiences loved to see.

Conclusion

In summary, John Wayne was indeed taller than average for his time, a fact that contributed to his commanding on-screen presence. The use of special boots to slightly increase his height further enhanced this image, but it was his charisma and acting talent that ultimately made him one of the most memorable actors in film history.

For more information about John Wayne's legendary career and the impact of his height on screen, please visit IMDb or explore other reputable sources dedicated to Hollywood history.