Kevin Costner, standing tall at six-foot-three, sheds light on a surprising aspect of Hollywood discrimination—height bias. Reflecting on his experience working with Robert DeNiro on “Untouchables,” Costner reveals that DeNiro, insecure about his own stature, wore high platform shoes. Costner discloses DeNiro’s refusal to collaborate further, attributing it to his support for George H.W. Bush. According to Costner, DeNiro favors shorter co-stars like Pacino, Pesci, and Stiller, leading to Costner losing roles due to DeNiro’s influence.
Height Bias in DeNiro’s Choices
Costner discloses DeNiro’s preference for smaller actors, sharing instances of being ousted from roles because of DeNiro’s stature fixation. DeNiro’s extreme reaction to height is highlighted as a significant factor influencing casting decisions.
DeNiro’s Rant and the Oversized Podium
DeNiro’s recent anti-Trump rant at The Gotham Awards is examined, with showrunner Joe Barron noting that the oversized podium diminished the impact of DeNiro’s message. Barron’s comment, though criticized for being offensive to little people, underscores the disconnect between DeNiro’s rhetoric and his physical presence.
Peter Dinklage’s Commentary
Peter Dinklage, responding to offensive language directed at little people, emphasizes the acceptance of the term “dwarfs” but adds a puzzling comment about not being hired for movies about their community. Dinklage’s inclusion adds a touch of irony to the discussion on Hollywood biases.
DeNiro’s Hollywood Fallout
Costner’s revelations inspire others to come forward, with Jim Caviezel and Mel Gibson expressing their reluctance to work with DeNiro. The growing list of actors refusing collaboration sheds light on the underreported issue of height bias in Hollywood.