Bea Arthur was more than just a towering figure in the entertainment world—she was a trailblazer whose physical presence and commanding voice matched her indomitable spirit.
Her height, personality, and talent combined to create an unforgettable legacy in television, theater, and social advocacy. Let’s explore the details of her life, career, and the fascinating question: how tall was Bea Arthur, and how did it contribute to her iconic status?
Bea Arthur Bio/Wiki
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Bernice Frankel |
| Date of Birth | May 13, 1922 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, New York |
| Date of Death | April 25, 2009 |
| Occupation | Actress, Comedienne, Singer |
| Notable Works | “Maude,” “The Golden Girls” |
| Height | 5 feet 9½ inches (1.77 m) |
| Career Highlights | Transitioned from stage to television, known for her strong presence and sharp wit |
| Legacy | Remembered as a trailblazer in entertainment, with a lasting impact on television history |
Who Was Bea Arthur?
Born Bernice Frankel on May 13, 1922, in New York City, Bea Arthur grew up in Cambridge, Maryland. From an early age, she demonstrated a flair for the dramatic, a trait that would define her future success.
Her Jewish heritage and upbringing instilled a strong sense of resilience and independence. These qualities would later influence her groundbreaking performances on stage and screen, as well as her advocacy for social causes like LGBTQ+ rights and animal welfare.
Early Life and Background
Bea’s path to fame was unconventional. After attending Blackstone College for Girls, she trained at the Dramatic Workshop of The New School in New York City, where her talent quickly became evident. Before her acting career, Bea enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, making her one of the first women to serve. This experience shaped her disciplined work ethic and no-nonsense demeanor.
Her post-war life saw her immersing herself in the arts, leading to her debut in theater in 1947.
Bea Arthur’s Career Milestones
From Stage to Screen
Bea’s career began on Broadway, where her roles in productions like “Mame” earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Her transition to television solidified her status as an icon.
Television Stardom
- Maude (1972-1978): This groundbreaking sitcom tackled social issues like abortion, gender equality, and mental health. Bea’s portrayal of the unapologetically feminist Maude Findlay made her a household name.
- The Golden Girls (1985-1992): As Dorothy Zbornak, Bea delivered a mix of sharp wit, vulnerability, and intelligence. This role won her a Primetime Emmy Award, cementing her place in TV history.
Later Years
After The Golden Girls, Bea continued performing in theater and made guest appearances in television shows. Her one-woman Broadway show, “Bea Arthur on Broadway: Just Between Friends”, celebrated her career and life.
Bea Arthur’s Height: The Iconic Physical Presence
Bea Arthur’s height was 5 feet 9½ inches (1.77 meters), and her stature was integral to her commanding presence. Standing tall in an era where leading women were often petite, Bea defied stereotypes and used her physicality to dominate the screen and stage.
Her strong jawline, deep voice, and sturdy body type gave her an authoritative appearance. Compared to co-stars like Betty White (5’4″), Rue McClanahan (5’3″), and Estelle Getty (4’11”), Bea’s tall stature often positioned her as the anchor in group scenes, enhancing her role as the strong, reliable figure.
Physical Appearance and Personality
Beyond her height, Bea Arthur’s distinct physical traits added to her allure:
- Hair: Blonde in her early career, transitioning to gray, a striking feature later in life.
- Eyes: Expressive brown eyes that conveyed intelligence and emotion.
- Voice: A resonant, contralto voice that became her signature.
Her personality was as memorable as her appearance. Known for her sharp wit and dry humor, Bea was both intimidating and endearing, a mix that endeared her to audiences.
Personal Life: Bea Arthur Off-Screen
Relationships
Bea married twice:
- Robert Alan Aurthur (1944-1950): A screenwriter and producer.
- Gene Saks (1950-1978): A director with whom she had two adopted sons, Matthew and Daniel.
Despite her celebrity, Bea remained private, preferring quiet moments at her Brentwood home over the limelight.
Hobbies and Passions
Off-screen, Bea was an animal lover and advocate. She worked with PETA and left a portion of her estate to support animal rights causes. She also championed LGBTQ+ rights, often performing at charity events.
Bea Arthur’s Net Worth
At the time of her death in 2009, Bea Arthur’s net worth was estimated at $8 million. Her wealth came from:
- Acting salaries (The Golden Girls earned her $75,000 per episode in its later seasons).
- Broadway performances.
- Residual income from syndication deals.
- Auction proceeds, including the sale of a nude portrait for $1.9 million.
Her financial legacy also included generous donations to causes close to her heart.
Fun and Lesser-Known Facts About Bea Arthur
- Military Pioneer: Bea was one of the first women to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a truck driver and typist.
- Charity Work: She funded housing for homeless LGBTQ+ youth in New York City.
- Famous Feuds: She reportedly had a complicated relationship with her Golden Girls co-star Betty White, although both admired each other’s talent.
Media Featuring Bea Arthur
Videos
- Clips from Maude addressing taboo topics of the 1970s.
- Dorothy Zbornak’s iconic one-liners from The Golden Girls.
Images
- Early promotional shots from her Broadway days.
- Group photos with her Golden Girls co-stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall was Bea Arthur?
Bea Arthur stood at an impressive 5 feet 9½ inches tall. This height contributed to her commanding presence both on stage and screen.
What roles is Bea Arthur best known for?
Bea Arthur is best known for her roles as Maude Findlay in “Maude” and Dorothy Zbornak in “The Golden Girls.” Both characters showcased her sharp wit and strong personality.
Did Bea Arthur win any major awards?
Yes, Bea Arthur won numerous awards throughout her career. Notably, she received two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award for her role in the musical “Mame.”
Was Bea Arthur involved in any social causes?
Bea Arthur was a passionate advocate for animal rights and supported organizations like PETA. She also championed LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to raise awareness for important causes.
Did Bea Arthur have a family?
Yes, Bea Arthur was married twice and had two adopted sons, Matthew and Daniel Saks. She was first married to Robert Alan Aurthur and later to Gene Saks.
Was Bea Arthur in the military?
Indeed, Bea Arthur served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. She reached the rank of staff sergeant before being honorably discharged.
What is a unique fact about Bea Arthur?
A nude painting of Bea Arthur sold for $1.9 million at an auction in 2013. The artwork generated a lot of buzz and added to her iconic status.
Conclusion
Bea Arthur’s height, personality, and talent made her a unique force in the entertainment industry. From her towering stature to her trailblazing roles, Bea Arthur was a woman who stood tall—both literally and figuratively. Her legacy as a feminist icon, advocate, and brilliant performer continues to inspire audiences today. Whether through her groundbreaking characters or her real-life philanthropy, Bea Arthur remains an enduring figure in popular culture.
This article pays tribute to a legend whose life was as remarkable as her towering presence. Revisit her work to understand why Bea Arthur is truly unforgettable.
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