Billy Barty
Billy Barty (born William John Bertanzetti, October 25, 1924 – December 23, 2000) was an American actor and activist.[1] In adult life, he stood 3 ft 9 in (1.14 m) tall, due to cartilage–hair hypoplasia dwarfism. Because of his short stature, he was often cast in films opposite taller performers for comic effect. He specialized in outspoken or wisecracking characters. During the 1950s, he became a television actor, appearing regularly in the Spike Jones ensemble. In the early 1970s he was a staple in a variety of roles in children's TV programs produced by Sid and Marty Krofft. Also an activist for people with dwarfism, he founded the Little People of America organization in 1957.
Billy Barty
December 23, 2000 (aged 76)
- Actor
- activist
1927–2000
3 ft 9 in (114 cm)
2, including Braden Barty
Early life[edit]
Barty was born October 25, 1924, in Millsboro, Pennsylvania, the son of Albert Steven and Ellen Cecial Bertanzetti.[2] His paternal grandfather was Italian. The family moved to California in 1927.[3] He had two sisters, Delores and Evelyn.[3]