Billy Barty

Billy Barty (born William John Bertanzetti) (October 25, 1924–December 23, 2000) was an American film actor.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Barty was born in Millsboro, Pennsylvania. He was one of the most famous 20th century people with dwarfism, having prominent roles in popular movies such as Foul Play, The Lord of the Rings (both 1978), Under the Rainbow (1981), Masters of the Universe (1987), Willow (1988) and UHF (1989). But because of his stature, most of his work consisted of bit parts and gag roles. Barty was known for his boundless energy and enthusiasm for any productions in which he appeared.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Barty was a noted activist for the promotion of rights for others with dwarfism. He was disappointed with contemporary Herv? Villechaize's insistence that they were "midgets" instead of actors with dwarfism. Barty founded the Little People of America to help with his activism.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Barty was married to his wife Shirley from 1950 until his death. They had two children, Braden and Lori. Barty and his family were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A recent tribute book on his life was published in December 2002. ' was produced by Barty's nephew, Michael Copeland, and his wife, Debra Copeland.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

October 25: October 25 is the 298th day of the year (299th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 67 days remaining....

1924: 1924 was a leap year starting on Tuesday (link will take you to calendar)....

December 23: December 23 is the 357th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (358th in leap years). There are 8 days remaining....

Billy Barty related Images and Photos (experimental)

Actor Billy Barty Participating in a Charity Boxing Bout	Billy Boys	Billy Fury	Billy Dove
Billy Idol	Billy Zane	Billy Jack	Billy Idol
Billy Idol	Billy Fury	Billy Jack	Billy Budd (1962) (DVD)