Danny Devito – Height, Age, Net Worth, Wife & Movies in 2025

Danny DeVito, born Daniel Michael DeVito Jr. on November 17, 1944, is an American actor, comedian, director, and producer whose distinctive stature and towering talent have made him one of Hollywood’s most recognisable figures. Standing at 4 ft 10 in (1.47 m) due to a rare genetic bone condition, he has built a career spanning more than five decades, earning an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and an estimated net worth of $80 million. From his breakthrough in Taxi to his iconic turn as the Penguin in Batman Returns and his ongoing role as Frank Reynolds on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, DeVito remains a constant presence on screen and in pop culture.

Despite his short height, DeVito has played some of the most physically imposing characters in film history. His versatility, sharp comedic timing, and skill as a producer have cemented his legacy. Below is a detailed look at the facts fans most often search for.

How Tall Is Danny DeVito and How Old Is He?

• Danny DeVito stands at 4’10” (147 cm), a fact that often surprises newcomers to his work.
• He has been married to actress Rhea Perlman since 1982, though they separated in 2017 but remain legally married.
• His net worth is estimated at $80 million from acting, directing, and producing, including royalties from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
• Despite his height, DeVito played physically imposing characters like the Penguin in Batman Returns (1992).
• He began his career in television in the 1970s, gaining fame on Taxi (1978‑1983).

His height is a result of multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED), also called Fairbank’s disease, a rare genetic disorder that affects bone growth. This condition has been well documented and is not in dispute.

Who Is Danny DeVito’s Wife and What Is His Net Worth?

Danny DeVito’s wife is Rhea Perlman, best known for her role as Carla on the sitcom Cheers. They met in 1971 after a single performance of the play The Shrinking Bride, moved in together two weeks later, and married on January 28, 1982. The couple has three children: Lucie, Grace, and Jake. They separated in 2017 but have not divorced; both have publicly stated that they remain close and legally married.

DeVito and Perlman also co‑founded Jersey Films in 1992, a production company behind acclaimed movies such as Pulp Fiction, Matilda, Man on the Moon, and Garden State. This venture contributed significantly to DeVito’s wealth.

How Many Children Does Danny DeVito Have?

Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman have three children: Lucie (born 1983), Grace (born 1985), and Jake (born 1987). All three have pursued careers in the arts.

Is Danny DeVito Still Married to Rhea Perlman?

Legally, yes. They remain married though they have lived separately since 2017. In interviews, both have said they are not divorced and maintain a friendly relationship.

What Are Danny DeVito’s Most Famous Movies and Roles?

Danny DeVito’s filmography spans comedy, drama, and voice work. His most iconic roles include:

Did Danny DeVito Play the Penguin?

Yes. He portrayed the Penguin (Oswald Cobblepot) in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns (1992). His performance, buried under heavy prosthetics, was both grotesque and sympathetic. In 2021, DeVito even wrote a 12‑page comic story featuring the Penguin and Catwoman for the anthology Gotham City Villains.

Was Danny DeVito in Matilda?

Yes. He played Harry Wormwood, Matilda’s abusive and dishonest father, in the 1996 film Matilda. DeVito also directed the movie and co‑produced it with Rhea Perlman.

Other Major Roles

• Louie De Palma in Taxi (1978‑1983) – won a Golden Globe and an Emmy.
• Randle Pepe in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975) – his breakthrough role.
• Ronny in Pulp Fiction (1994, produced by Jersey Films).
• Frank Reynolds in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2006‑present).
• Max Medici in Dumbo (2019, Disney live‑action remake).
• Voice of The Lorax in The Lorax (2012).
• Voice of the Devil in Little Demon (2022).

What Did Danny DeVito Look Like When He Was Young and How Did His Career Start?

Before he became a household name, Danny DeVito was a stage actor in New York. He studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and performed in Off‑Broadway productions. His first on‑screen appearance was an uncredited role in Dreams of Glass (1970).

His breakthrough came in 1975 when he played the small but memorable role of Randle Pepe in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Director Miloš Forman cast him after seeing his stage work. That film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and launched DeVito’s film career.

He achieved television stardom as the scheming dispatcher Louie De Palma on the hit sitcom Taxi (1978‑1983), which earned him both a Golden Globe and an Emmy. In the decades that followed, he balanced film roles, directing, and producing while maintaining a consistent presence on the small screen.

Is Danny DeVito Still Acting?

Yes. As of 2025, DeVito continues to appear in film and television. He plays Frank Reynolds on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, a role he has held since 2006, and the show has been renewed for additional seasons. In 2025, he guest‑starred in one episode of Abbott Elementary as a character named Frank. He also remains active on social media, particularly on his official Twitter/X account @DannyDeVito.

Danny DeVito’s Career Timeline

1. 1944 – Born in Neptune Township, New Jersey.
2. 1970 – First on‑screen appearance (uncredited in Dreams of Glass).
3. 1978 – Cast as Louie DePalma in Taxi, earning an Emmy and Golden Globe.
4. 1983 – Married Rhea Perlman.
5. 1992 – Played the Penguin in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns.
6. 1996 – Directed and starred in Matilda.
7. 2005 – Began role as Frank Reynolds in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
8. 2017 – Nominated for a Tony for The Price on Broadway.
9. 2024 – Continues to appear in TV and film; active on social media.

What Is Known for Certain and What Remains Unclear?

The Cultural Impact of Danny DeVito

Danny DeVito’s stature and distinctive voice made him an iconic character actor. He proved that physical limitations do not define an actor’s range. His transition from comedic TV roles (Taxi) to a blockbuster villain (the Penguin) showcased his versatility. As a producer via Jersey Films, he helped shape modern cinema with titles like Pulp Fiction and Erin Brockovich. Despite his age, he remains relevant through It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and an active social media presence that endears him to younger generations.

What Do the Sources Say?

“Daniel Michael DeVito Jr. (born November 17, 1944) is an American actor, comedian, director, and producer.”

— Wikipedia

“Danny DeVito has amassed a formidable and diverse body of work as an actor, producer and director that spans the stage, television and film.”

— IMDb

“Danny DeVito, highest rated: 99% LA Confidential (1997), lowest rated: 0% Look Who’s Talking Now (1993).”

— Rotten Tomatoes

What’s Next for Danny DeVito?

DeVito continues to voice and appear in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which has been renewed for multiple seasons. New film projects are often announced via his Twitter/X account. Interest in his height and personal life remains steady, especially among new generations discovering his work through streaming platforms. He speaks five languages — English, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and German — and shows no signs of slowing down.

Frequently Asked Questions