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Average Guess (197 Votes)
5ft 7.06in (170.3cm)
5ft 7.06in (170.3cm)
glenn said on 14/Dec/08
i appreciate your post aaron.wouldnt surprise me if cruise was a hair taller than me.but in reality we can agree that we are all pretty much close.bruce probably the lowest.
i appreciate your post aaron.wouldnt surprise me if cruise was a hair taller than me.but in reality we can agree that we are all pretty much close.bruce probably the lowest.
Aaron said on 14/Dec/08
Ayaz Zuberi, to be fair I think Linda Lee would know how tall her husband was, however, I have never read that she said he was 5'6" but as I said earlier, I did read that she was 5'7" and every photograph of her taken him which I have seen clearly shows Bruce around 1" taller than her.
Ayaz Zuberi, to be fair I think Linda Lee would know how tall her husband was, however, I have never read that she said he was 5'6" but as I said earlier, I did read that she was 5'7" and every photograph of her taken him which I have seen clearly shows Bruce around 1" taller than her.
Brad said on 14/Dec/08
Her book or article. 2 other people here read it. Ali would have destroyed Lee. Ali/Clay danced and threw combinations. A 6' 3" best in the world boxer would flatten Lee with one punch. Look at him with a 5' 9" John Saxon.
Her book or article. 2 other people here read it. Ali would have destroyed Lee. Ali/Clay danced and threw combinations. A 6' 3" best in the world boxer would flatten Lee with one punch. Look at him with a 5' 9" John Saxon.
Aaron said on 14/Dec/08
Well I respect your opinion Glenn and when I asked you on your page who you thought would be the tallest out of Tom Cruise and Bruce Lee, I think you were probably spot on with your reply. I think if you and they stood together you would probably just edge it, with Tom a close second and Bruce third. Although I doubt if there would be more than half an inch between each height.
Well I respect your opinion Glenn and when I asked you on your page who you thought would be the tallest out of Tom Cruise and Bruce Lee, I think you were probably spot on with your reply. I think if you and they stood together you would probably just edge it, with Tom a close second and Bruce third. Although I doubt if there would be more than half an inch between each height.
EmBe said on 14/Dec/08
If Bruce was only 5'6", all the high profile HongKong actors, actresses, directors like Raymond Chow, Nora Miao, etc.. in those days must have been like only 5'1" which I highly doubt. Bruce towered over most of them and stood a good height for an asian male in his day. He would be short by today's standards, but back then he was tall for an asian man. When did Linda say Bruce was 5'6"? Source puhleaze?! Brad's on crack.
If Bruce was only 5'6", all the high profile HongKong actors, actresses, directors like Raymond Chow, Nora Miao, etc.. in those days must have been like only 5'1" which I highly doubt. Bruce towered over most of them and stood a good height for an asian male in his day. He would be short by today's standards, but back then he was tall for an asian man. When did Linda say Bruce was 5'6"? Source puhleaze?! Brad's on crack.
Ayaz Zuberi said on 13/Dec/08
How does Linda Lee know how tall Bruce is? Are you assuming she took a measuring tape out and measured him?
If for example Linda was 5ft7inches and Bruce was 5ft 8inches. Theoretically if Linda looked at Bruce face to face, it is possible she could think she was taller than him by looking at him, even though she was shorter.
Like i said, i have talked to people face to face thinking they were 3inches shorter than me, but on catching myself in a reflection in a shop window standing next to the person. The person was in fact only about an inch shorter.
So Brad you are wrong about bruce being 5ft6. You are biased anyway. Even if Bruce was 5ft 6 he would beat Ali anyway still.
That is only the reason some people try putting Bruce at 5ft6inches. To belittle him i believe.
How does Linda Lee know how tall Bruce is? Are you assuming she took a measuring tape out and measured him?
If for example Linda was 5ft7inches and Bruce was 5ft 8inches. Theoretically if Linda looked at Bruce face to face, it is possible she could think she was taller than him by looking at him, even though she was shorter.
Like i said, i have talked to people face to face thinking they were 3inches shorter than me, but on catching myself in a reflection in a shop window standing next to the person. The person was in fact only about an inch shorter.
So Brad you are wrong about bruce being 5ft6. You are biased anyway. Even if Bruce was 5ft 6 he would beat Ali anyway still.
That is only the reason some people try putting Bruce at 5ft6inches. To belittle him i believe.
glenn said on 13/Dec/08
since brad like to pick on me constantly,allow me to do the same.brad forgot to mention how old he was when he saw lee.6? 10? whatvever age,your allowed mistakes.respect brads opinion? he never does to mine.
since brad like to pick on me constantly,allow me to do the same.brad forgot to mention how old he was when he saw lee.6? 10? whatvever age,your allowed mistakes.respect brads opinion? he never does to mine.
Brad said on 12/Dec/08
Somebody should write her. I got her book signed in the mail 25 years ago but I lost the address.
Somebody should write her. I got her book signed in the mail 25 years ago but I lost the address.
Aaron said on 12/Dec/08
Brad, I respect your opinion as I do all of the views on here, however, I heard that Linda Lee was 5'7" yet in every picture with her and Bruce he looks around an inch taller. Now in most of the pictures he has a bare top, so I am assuming if he is wearing footwear then he is only wearing Kung Fu slippers.
Brad, I respect your opinion as I do all of the views on here, however, I heard that Linda Lee was 5'7" yet in every picture with her and Bruce he looks around an inch taller. Now in most of the pictures he has a bare top, so I am assuming if he is wearing footwear then he is only wearing Kung Fu slippers.
Brad said on 11/Dec/08
5' 8" is insane. I saw him 2 feet from me in 2" Cuban heel and I wasn't looking up at him at 5' 10" in P.F. Flyers at 5' 5". He was as his wife Linda says: 5' 6". He was a small small guy. Watch Enter The Dragon with a 5' 9" John Saxon: then subtract. I'll ask Saxon in Feb..
5' 8" is insane. I saw him 2 feet from me in 2" Cuban heel and I wasn't looking up at him at 5' 10" in P.F. Flyers at 5' 5". He was as his wife Linda says: 5' 6". He was a small small guy. Watch Enter The Dragon with a 5' 9" John Saxon: then subtract. I'll ask Saxon in Feb..
Andy Serkis said on 11/Dec/08
Bruce was at his tallest probably neared 5ft 8inches but not quite there. More likely 5ft7.5 or slightly less when gravity took place and by bedtime hed probably might be less than 5ft7.5. Not 5ft6.5.
Bruce was a skinny guy and if he was 5ft6 and skinny, he would have weighed about 120lbs. But Bruce had gone up to about `160lb in weight and that could only have been achieved with the taller frame.
Rob has got this one right i think.
Bruce was at his tallest probably neared 5ft 8inches but not quite there. More likely 5ft7.5 or slightly less when gravity took place and by bedtime hed probably might be less than 5ft7.5. Not 5ft6.5.
Bruce was a skinny guy and if he was 5ft6 and skinny, he would have weighed about 120lbs. But Bruce had gone up to about `160lb in weight and that could only have been achieved with the taller frame.
Rob has got this one right i think.
Seriously said on 9/Dec/08
Yo I know exactly what you are talking about Anon. With contacts, it's like everything is bigger. Especially facial features.
But yeah, Bruce Lee was like around 5'8 man, the best fighter to ever lived.
Yo I know exactly what you are talking about Anon. With contacts, it's like everything is bigger. Especially facial features.
But yeah, Bruce Lee was like around 5'8 man, the best fighter to ever lived.
Anon 2 said on 7/Dec/08
Correct Ayaz. Chuck Norris said in an interview that not only did Bruce hit as hard as a strong 200-pounder, but had long gorilla arms like a taller man as well. As for seeing people shorter, short-sighted people with thick high prescription glasses like myself also tend to see people a lot shorter than they really are. With contacts on, everyone seems a lot taller. Anyone who wears glasses knows what I'm talking about.
Correct Ayaz. Chuck Norris said in an interview that not only did Bruce hit as hard as a strong 200-pounder, but had long gorilla arms like a taller man as well. As for seeing people shorter, short-sighted people with thick high prescription glasses like myself also tend to see people a lot shorter than they really are. With contacts on, everyone seems a lot taller. Anyone who wears glasses knows what I'm talking about.
Ayaz Zuberi said on 6/Dec/08
Bruce wasnt 5ft6inches. You can tell Bruce had long limbs ie arms and legs. He had the reach of a six footer it has been said.
Bolo Yeung was 5ft 6 and Bruce was at least an inch taller wearing only kung fu slippers. Im sure Bolo had a bit of height in his shoes next to Bruce.
Bruce has stood toe to toe with many great martial artists and they never describe him as being as small as 5ft6inches, because he wasnt. Bob Wall has described Bruce as 5ft 10 once even. Of course Bob was wrong though as anyone can be when gauging someones height standing next to them.
Ive been talking to people face to face in the past and thought the person i was talking to was at least 3inches shorter than me. But on looking in a reflection of us in a shop window i could tell that the person i was talking to was in fact only less than an inch shorter than me.
It a case of the your eyes playing tricks on you.
Bruce wasnt 5ft6inches. You can tell Bruce had long limbs ie arms and legs. He had the reach of a six footer it has been said.
Bolo Yeung was 5ft 6 and Bruce was at least an inch taller wearing only kung fu slippers. Im sure Bolo had a bit of height in his shoes next to Bruce.
Bruce has stood toe to toe with many great martial artists and they never describe him as being as small as 5ft6inches, because he wasnt. Bob Wall has described Bruce as 5ft 10 once even. Of course Bob was wrong though as anyone can be when gauging someones height standing next to them.
Ive been talking to people face to face in the past and thought the person i was talking to was at least 3inches shorter than me. But on looking in a reflection of us in a shop window i could tell that the person i was talking to was in fact only less than an inch shorter than me.
It a case of the your eyes playing tricks on you.
Randy said on 5/Dec/08
Aaron, I read the majority of the book. The only height mentioned was 5'7". If there is statement referring to Bruce Lee as 5'6" I didn't see it. I could be wrong though so I might have to check it again.
Aaron, I read the majority of the book. The only height mentioned was 5'7". If there is statement referring to Bruce Lee as 5'6" I didn't see it. I could be wrong though so I might have to check it again.
Aaron said on 5/Dec/08
Anon 2, Nice one and a clincher. The commentator said only 5'7.5" tall, therefore if Bruce had been shorter they would have said so because it would have made all his feats even more remarkable. He looks easily 5'7.5" in the video clip, perhaps 5'8" straight out of bed. I go along with Randy, 5.7.5" daytime height.
Anon 2, Nice one and a clincher. The commentator said only 5'7.5" tall, therefore if Bruce had been shorter they would have said so because it would have made all his feats even more remarkable. He looks easily 5'7.5" in the video clip, perhaps 5'8" straight out of bed. I go along with Randy, 5.7.5" daytime height.
Anon 2 said on 4/Dec/08
Another proof in the pudding on youtube... a clip from the documentary "Legacy Of The Dragon", look at 0:30 of this clip to hear the commentator say "standing only five feet seven and a half inches tall and weighing 132 pounds..."
Click Here
Another proof in the pudding on youtube... a clip from the documentary "Legacy Of The Dragon", look at 0:30 of this clip to hear the commentator say "standing only five feet seven and a half inches tall and weighing 132 pounds..."
Click Here
Aaron said on 3/Dec/08
Randy, Yes, it is in one of his biographies and he wrote them down before he was famous. I cannot remember all his measurements but I do recall him writing down his height as 5'8", in which case if his height was taken first thing in the morning, allowing for shrinkage during the day, then 5'7.5" would tie up perfectly as his daytime measurement. One question though, I noticed by your earlier comment that you own the biography which M.o.r.g. said stated his height as 5'6", as I do not have this biography, can I ask you if anywhere in it it states Bruce's height as 5'6"?
Randy, Yes, it is in one of his biographies and he wrote them down before he was famous. I cannot remember all his measurements but I do recall him writing down his height as 5'8", in which case if his height was taken first thing in the morning, allowing for shrinkage during the day, then 5'7.5" would tie up perfectly as his daytime measurement. One question though, I noticed by your earlier comment that you own the biography which M.o.r.g. said stated his height as 5'6", as I do not have this biography, can I ask you if anywhere in it it states Bruce's height as 5'6"?
Randy said on 2/Dec/08
Aaron, I never knew Bruce Lee listed himself as 5'8". Trust me, when evidence pops up I never try to fudge it as something more. From his notes or possibly his unrevised book Tao of JKD, as well as his audio interview I found on Youtube recently--he listed himself as 5'7.5".
UPDATE: Somebody just removed the phone interview from Youtube. I'll see if I can find it somewhere else.
Aaron, I never knew Bruce Lee listed himself as 5'8". Trust me, when evidence pops up I never try to fudge it as something more. From his notes or possibly his unrevised book Tao of JKD, as well as his audio interview I found on Youtube recently--he listed himself as 5'7.5".
UPDATE: Somebody just removed the phone interview from Youtube. I'll see if I can find it somewhere else.
Aaron said on 30/Nov/08
Randy, although I find that difficult to accept, I know Bruce did list his height as 5'8" with his measurements before he was famous and as you say he was meticulous about these figures then perhaps you are right. It would not be the first time I have been wrong in estimating a person's height, sometimes photographs give people a shorter appearance than when you meet them in person and I have never had the privilage of meeting Bruce, therefore I accept your estimate.
Randy, although I find that difficult to accept, I know Bruce did list his height as 5'8" with his measurements before he was famous and as you say he was meticulous about these figures then perhaps you are right. It would not be the first time I have been wrong in estimating a person's height, sometimes photographs give people a shorter appearance than when you meet them in person and I have never had the privilage of meeting Bruce, therefore I accept your estimate.
Randy said on 30/Nov/08
Aaron, I respect your opinion. However I think his daytime height was 5'7.5" due to the fact most people don't usually jump out of bed and measure themselves. Spine usually relaxes to give nearly an inch during sleep and in the case of Bruce, 5'8" likely was his morning height and gradually decreased to 5'7.5" as the day progressed. And I agree that his daytime height was not 5'8"--as Bruce Lee said himself. That's just my opinion based on people who actually met Bruce Lee.
Aaron, I respect your opinion. However I think his daytime height was 5'7.5" due to the fact most people don't usually jump out of bed and measure themselves. Spine usually relaxes to give nearly an inch during sleep and in the case of Bruce, 5'8" likely was his morning height and gradually decreased to 5'7.5" as the day progressed. And I agree that his daytime height was not 5'8"--as Bruce Lee said himself. That's just my opinion based on people who actually met Bruce Lee.
Randy said on 28/Nov/08
Aaron, I respect your opinion. I think 5'7.5" was his walking height as nobody actually gets up quickly to measure themselves in the morning. I agree atleast that 5'8" was NOT Bruce Lee's daytime height, as Bruce Lee said himself.
Aaron, I respect your opinion. I think 5'7.5" was his walking height as nobody actually gets up quickly to measure themselves in the morning. I agree atleast that 5'8" was NOT Bruce Lee's daytime height, as Bruce Lee said himself.
Aaron said on 28/Nov/08
You are correct Randy and I apologise. Perhaps 5'7.5" first thing in the morning, I just cannot go along with 5'8" though.
You are correct Randy and I apologise. Perhaps 5'7.5" first thing in the morning, I just cannot go along with 5'8" though.
leonari said on 28/Nov/08
degafra lee: the only one who wastes space is you. You are on a height page for crying out loud!! There are thousands of fan, worship pages for Bruce Lee. He was amazing-no doubt. But you should refrain of accusing us of wasting space cause you are guilty when it comes to wasting space. Go drink some tea rather.
degafra lee: the only one who wastes space is you. You are on a height page for crying out loud!! There are thousands of fan, worship pages for Bruce Lee. He was amazing-no doubt. But you should refrain of accusing us of wasting space cause you are guilty when it comes to wasting space. Go drink some tea rather.
Randy said on 27/Nov/08
Aaron, the fact that several people who trained with Bruce Lee, most notably and reputable,Joe Lewis, said he was a solid 5'7" suggests that the height of 5'7.5" is quite possible. Moreover, it's hard to imagine anyone discerning a half-an-inch even up close. I'll stick with Bruce Lee's own measurement which he said in a radio interview-- 5'7.5". This guy was meticulous in his training regimen (just look at his original daily routines) so something like measurments would be something he would do with accuracy.
Aaron, the fact that several people who trained with Bruce Lee, most notably and reputable,Joe Lewis, said he was a solid 5'7" suggests that the height of 5'7.5" is quite possible. Moreover, it's hard to imagine anyone discerning a half-an-inch even up close. I'll stick with Bruce Lee's own measurement which he said in a radio interview-- 5'7.5". This guy was meticulous in his training regimen (just look at his original daily routines) so something like measurments would be something he would do with accuracy.
Aaron said on 27/Nov/08
Randy, I would accept 5'7" but with all due respect to Bruce anything over that I think is ridiculous.
Randy, I would accept 5'7" but with all due respect to Bruce anything over that I think is ridiculous.
leonari said on 27/Nov/08
I think Bruce was a flat 5'7" guy during most of the day and took a morning height measure which makes sense to me since he wanted to find out his max measurements
I think Bruce was a flat 5'7" guy during most of the day and took a morning height measure which makes sense to me since he wanted to find out his max measurements
Randy said on 26/Nov/08
M.o.r.g, nice try. I have the book. On pg. 34: " DeMile looked every inch and every pound the figher he was. He couldn't have been too worried as the young man beside him, who weighted 140 pounds and stood at five-foot-seven."
That would be Bruce Lee that was referred to by the book.
M.o.r.g, nice try. I have the book. On pg. 34: " DeMile looked every inch and every pound the figher he was. He couldn't have been too worried as the young man beside him, who weighted 140 pounds and stood at five-foot-seven."
That would be Bruce Lee that was referred to by the book.
Aaron said on 26/Nov/08
Thank you M.o.r.g, I will seek it out.
Thank you M.o.r.g, I will seek it out.
M.o.r.g said on 25/Nov/08
The biography is bruce lee:fighting spirit.
The biography is bruce lee:fighting spirit.
Randy said on 18/Nov/08
Joe Lewis, former heavy wieght Kickboxer, has stated repeatedly that Bruce Lee was 5"7. He worked with Bruce for over a year and half, spent hours each day with him. Its in his book.
Joe Lewis, former heavy wieght Kickboxer, has stated repeatedly that Bruce Lee was 5"7. He worked with Bruce for over a year and half, spent hours each day with him. Its in his book.
Brad said on 16/Nov/08
Wore them in literally anything on screen or on TV in the 60's.
Wore them in literally anything on screen or on TV in the 60's.
Aaron said on 16/Nov/08
I was not aware he wore cuban boots.
I was not aware he wore cuban boots.
Brad said on 16/Nov/08
One of her books had it if I remember. He sure looked it in person. Real short even with Cuban boots.
One of her books had it if I remember. He sure looked it in person. Real short even with Cuban boots.
Aaron said on 15/Nov/08
I heard his wife said he was 5'6" Brad but I have only ever seen him listed as between 5'7" and 5'7 1/2" in biographies, which is why I would have been interested to know which biography M.o.r.g read which said he was 5'6". He only looked 5'6" in my opinion but I have only seen movies and pictures.
I heard his wife said he was 5'6" Brad but I have only ever seen him listed as between 5'7" and 5'7 1/2" in biographies, which is why I would have been interested to know which biography M.o.r.g read which said he was 5'6". He only looked 5'6" in my opinion but I have only seen movies and pictures.
Brad said on 15/Nov/08
I'll keep it real: here's his wife: "Bruce was 5' 6".
I'll keep it real: here's his wife: "Bruce was 5' 6".
glenn said on 9/Nov/08
anon2-yes,thats true.i have friends,that knew people who sparred with him.
anon2-yes,thats true.i have friends,that knew people who sparred with him.
glenn said on 9/Nov/08
thanks guys.i means alot to me you heard me out.i didnt mean to get so personal,but he is my biggest enemy on the site and i want the truth out there.i was Banned in a sense cause of him ironically.and of course how i dealt with other pests.i had him Banned numerous times,had a heart and wanted him back only to stab me in the back again.enough of all that.back to height.
thanks guys.i means alot to me you heard me out.i didnt mean to get so personal,but he is my biggest enemy on the site and i want the truth out there.i was Banned in a sense cause of him ironically.and of course how i dealt with other pests.i had him Banned numerous times,had a heart and wanted him back only to stab me in the back again.enough of all that.back to height.
Anon 2 said on 9/Nov/08
Thanks Glenn, that explains a lot. Wow, was I right when I surmised Brad was unhappy with his own life. You sound like a cool dude who keeps it real. Keep up the good work on this site.
On the subject of size, I also just remembered one more thing about Bruce, and that is how both Chuck Norris and Joe Lewis, both world renowned Karate champions who've both trained and sparred with Lee, both said despite his size, Lee's punches were as hard as a strong 200-pounder, and both men were really surprised by the strength of Bruce's punches.
Thanks Glenn, that explains a lot. Wow, was I right when I surmised Brad was unhappy with his own life. You sound like a cool dude who keeps it real. Keep up the good work on this site.
On the subject of size, I also just remembered one more thing about Bruce, and that is how both Chuck Norris and Joe Lewis, both world renowned Karate champions who've both trained and sparred with Lee, both said despite his size, Lee's punches were as hard as a strong 200-pounder, and both men were really surprised by the strength of Bruce's punches.
leonari said on 8/Nov/08
true that Glenn. Brad can not keep it real all the time...but he tries.
true that Glenn. Brad can not keep it real all the time...but he tries.
Aaron said on 8/Nov/08
I would like to know which biography M.o.r.g. read which says he is 5'6", Anon2 asked him but he has not answered. A pity because I would have liked to have read that biography.
I would like to know which biography M.o.r.g. read which says he is 5'6", Anon2 asked him but he has not answered. A pity because I would have liked to have read that biography.
glenn said on 8/Nov/08
oh,i forgot he also was Banned a couple of times,mainly for posting personal info or rather wrong info about me.i was Banned for my temper and language.i learned my lesson.brad toned down,but still tries to irk me.
oh,i forgot he also was Banned a couple of times,mainly for posting personal info or rather wrong info about me.i was Banned for my temper and language.i learned my lesson.brad toned down,but still tries to irk me.
glenn said on 8/Nov/08
amen to that anon2.people rarely stick it to brad.i cant fight nor do i want to fight with him or anyone on the site anymore.i dont take him serious anymore and rob never did either.at least to me in emails.shame as i always said i admired him to a point and that he is witty and intelligent.but boy can he be deluded and persistant.to the point where he posted under a myriad of different names,sometimes to attack me personally saying i was a loser who obtained autographs in the rain and got my photos wet.lol.i dont get photos signed.rarely.brad is 6-5 and admitted he had problems with girls and was shy.nothing wrong with that as im loser in alot of other areas.so he pegs me at 5-6.5 for his tall comings.so he hides in front of a computer and lets it rip.real manly.
amen to that anon2.people rarely stick it to brad.i cant fight nor do i want to fight with him or anyone on the site anymore.i dont take him serious anymore and rob never did either.at least to me in emails.shame as i always said i admired him to a point and that he is witty and intelligent.but boy can he be deluded and persistant.to the point where he posted under a myriad of different names,sometimes to attack me personally saying i was a loser who obtained autographs in the rain and got my photos wet.lol.i dont get photos signed.rarely.brad is 6-5 and admitted he had problems with girls and was shy.nothing wrong with that as im loser in alot of other areas.so he pegs me at 5-6.5 for his tall comings.so he hides in front of a computer and lets it rip.real manly.
Anon 2 said on 7/Nov/08
Street fights where throat shots, eye gouges, shots to the groin, biting, etc... Ali would not be prepared for, and Lee excelled at, especially with his inhuman quickness... like I said, Ali vs. Lee is a stupid talk to begin with that proves nothing and I'm not even going there. Both were great men and awesome fighters.
Brad, I bet you don't have a clue about martial arts fighting let alone stepped into a gym in your lifetime if you think size and weight are everything. In my old Krav Maga dojo, there were 110 pound girls who wupped 200lb dudes in no-holds-barred sparring sessions.
Editor Rob has Bruce at 5-7.5, and all the people on this page who've done their homework and know what they're talking about say the same. I understand why Rob needs to keep the deluded trolls around, as they keep the discussions going, like how good needs evil or whatever... but for Stallone, it's not crystal clear what his true height is, but for Bruce, anyone with a pair of eyes, half a brain, decent google skills and has seen at least 2-3 reliable books/bios/films about Bruce will discover his true height on their own, it doesn't matter what these 5-6 trolls say, Bruce's true height is what it is, and that's what Rob has it at.
Street fights where throat shots, eye gouges, shots to the groin, biting, etc... Ali would not be prepared for, and Lee excelled at, especially with his inhuman quickness... like I said, Ali vs. Lee is a stupid talk to begin with that proves nothing and I'm not even going there. Both were great men and awesome fighters.
Brad, I bet you don't have a clue about martial arts fighting let alone stepped into a gym in your lifetime if you think size and weight are everything. In my old Krav Maga dojo, there were 110 pound girls who wupped 200lb dudes in no-holds-barred sparring sessions.
Editor Rob has Bruce at 5-7.5, and all the people on this page who've done their homework and know what they're talking about say the same. I understand why Rob needs to keep the deluded trolls around, as they keep the discussions going, like how good needs evil or whatever... but for Stallone, it's not crystal clear what his true height is, but for Bruce, anyone with a pair of eyes, half a brain, decent google skills and has seen at least 2-3 reliable books/bios/films about Bruce will discover his true height on their own, it doesn't matter what these 5-6 trolls say, Bruce's true height is what it is, and that's what Rob has it at.
glenn said on 7/Nov/08
brad was probably 5-6 as kid as im 5-6 now.look at the momsen pic.he can tell.that would make norris 5-8.which is hard to believe,but not impossible.bruce at 5-6,unlikely,but not impossible.sly at 5-8,5-8.5,impossible.ali destroying bruce is possible.
brad was probably 5-6 as kid as im 5-6 now.look at the momsen pic.he can tell.that would make norris 5-8.which is hard to believe,but not impossible.bruce at 5-6,unlikely,but not impossible.sly at 5-8,5-8.5,impossible.ali destroying bruce is possible.
Brad said on 6/Nov/08
5' 6" as his wife has said. Ali would have destroyed Lee. At 5' 6" a 210 pound heavyweight champ man with flurry combinations would flatten him. Ali danced & moved. I'm not de-mystifying him....shaking his hand and talking to him was a high event. He was a BIG thing back then....more than the ABC ratings. Van Williams saw Gene throw him across a Fox stage....he told me. Gene was very very strong. He looked huge on The Green Hornet taking Lee's fake hits. Bruce was short....he looked up to every actor he worked with.
5' 6" as his wife has said. Ali would have destroyed Lee. At 5' 6" a 210 pound heavyweight champ man with flurry combinations would flatten him. Ali danced & moved. I'm not de-mystifying him....shaking his hand and talking to him was a high event. He was a BIG thing back then....more than the ABC ratings. Van Williams saw Gene throw him across a Fox stage....he told me. Gene was very very strong. He looked huge on The Green Hornet taking Lee's fake hits. Bruce was short....he looked up to every actor he worked with.
glenn said on 6/Nov/08
he was 5-7ish.possible 5-8 out of bed.
he was 5-7ish.possible 5-8 out of bed.
Anon 2 said on 5/Nov/08
Actually Randy is right. I've read and watched several bios too, including a few HBO documentaries. They've all said he was 5-7 to 5-8. One of the most recent ones: "Bruce Lee: A Warrior's Journey" which chronicaled the making of Game of Death (the original version made by Bruce) said he was "just over 5-7".
Morg, state your source. I'm calling your bluff - which bio do you speak of that says he's 5-6? Didn't think so. Your 5-6 is a joke, Bruce ain't that short, get over it whatever it is you have against the man.
Actually Randy is right. I've read and watched several bios too, including a few HBO documentaries. They've all said he was 5-7 to 5-8. One of the most recent ones: "Bruce Lee: A Warrior's Journey" which chronicaled the making of Game of Death (the original version made by Bruce) said he was "just over 5-7".
Morg, state your source. I'm calling your bluff - which bio do you speak of that says he's 5-6? Didn't think so. Your 5-6 is a joke, Bruce ain't that short, get over it whatever it is you have against the man.
M.o.r.g said on 1/Nov/08
LOL 5'7 1/2? get real.and no it doesnt ive had his biography for nearly 3 years and it says 5'6.everyone says he's 5'6.get over it.
LOL 5'7 1/2? get real.and no it doesnt ive had his biography for nearly 3 years and it says 5'6.everyone says he's 5'6.get over it.
Randy said on 11/Oct/08
Wrong M.o.r.g. In his biography he said 5'7.5" and in a phone interview he said the same thing.
Wrong M.o.r.g. In his biography he said 5'7.5" and in a phone interview he said the same thing.
M.o.r.g said on 30/Sep/08
5'8 pfftt he's not even 5'7 it even says in his biography 5'6 ffs.
5'8 pfftt he's not even 5'7 it even says in his biography 5'6 ffs.
Anon 2 said on 20/Sep/08
What's with you Brad, you have a tone that wants to discredit Lee for every great thing he was just as you do on the Sly Stallone page?! Are you so unhappy with your own life to have the need to demythicize their legacies? Wth?
Gene LeBell did spar with Bruce, nobody won nor lost, they were just sparring and learning things off eachother. LeBell did beat up Steven Seagal on a set when Seagal was mistreating one of LeBell's student and stuntsman.
All these what-if scenarios are so stupid, there's so many conditions and rules in fighting, depends on the situation. Ali would obviously beat Bruce at boxing. But on the streets, Bruce would have the advantage, but who knows, Ali may have had a lot of street fighting tricks growing up in the rough neighborhoods of Kentucky, who knows? Nobody beats another person 100% even in the ring. Ali lost several times to guys he later beat. So it's pointless to compare two guys under such hypothetical scenarios, especially with such different styles and two men who've never even met face to face. Bruce is amazing, but there's never been any real footage of him in a real actual fight. Only demo's and sparring sessions. Undoubtedly he wupped some major ass in street fights, but with no footage of it, nobody can really tell whether he can really take on anyone else with dead certainty.
Rob has Chuck at 5-8.5, but I don't doubt he could have been 5-9 in the heydays with Bruce Lee. Most celebrity sites list him at 5-10.
What's with you Brad, you have a tone that wants to discredit Lee for every great thing he was just as you do on the Sly Stallone page?! Are you so unhappy with your own life to have the need to demythicize their legacies? Wth?
Gene LeBell did spar with Bruce, nobody won nor lost, they were just sparring and learning things off eachother. LeBell did beat up Steven Seagal on a set when Seagal was mistreating one of LeBell's student and stuntsman.
All these what-if scenarios are so stupid, there's so many conditions and rules in fighting, depends on the situation. Ali would obviously beat Bruce at boxing. But on the streets, Bruce would have the advantage, but who knows, Ali may have had a lot of street fighting tricks growing up in the rough neighborhoods of Kentucky, who knows? Nobody beats another person 100% even in the ring. Ali lost several times to guys he later beat. So it's pointless to compare two guys under such hypothetical scenarios, especially with such different styles and two men who've never even met face to face. Bruce is amazing, but there's never been any real footage of him in a real actual fight. Only demo's and sparring sessions. Undoubtedly he wupped some major ass in street fights, but with no footage of it, nobody can really tell whether he can really take on anyone else with dead certainty.
Rob has Chuck at 5-8.5, but I don't doubt he could have been 5-9 in the heydays with Bruce Lee. Most celebrity sites list him at 5-10.
Patrick said on 20/Sep/08
Bruce was 100% 5'7" and 0.5 so 5 foot 7 and a half.
Bruce was 100% 5'7" and 0.5 so 5 foot 7 and a half.
karl said on 12/Sep/08
Lebell never fought lee thats just a stupid rumour.As for Ali beating lee I very much doubt it.Lee had a lot more tools to use and would simply have been to much for Ali.
Lebell never fought lee thats just a stupid rumour.As for Ali beating lee I very much doubt it.Lee had a lot more tools to use and would simply have been to much for Ali.
Brad said on 7/Sep/08
Norris has never been over 5' 8" in his life. If you think that's a 5' 9" man in Cuban heel on The Green Hornet in every scene, that's insane. Ali would have destroyed Lee. Gene LeBell did though he turned it into "playing" to keep his SAG card and Teamster card (he was mostly a guy who humped flats and took a few hits, Lee laughed at wrestlers). You don't throw stars of TV shows 15 feet across a stage like Van Williams told me.
Norris has never been over 5' 8" in his life. If you think that's a 5' 9" man in Cuban heel on The Green Hornet in every scene, that's insane. Ali would have destroyed Lee. Gene LeBell did though he turned it into "playing" to keep his SAG card and Teamster card (he was mostly a guy who humped flats and took a few hits, Lee laughed at wrestlers). You don't throw stars of TV shows 15 feet across a stage like Van Williams told me.
trueheight said on 7/Sep/08
Like I said years ago on this site, the Norris/Lee pics prove he's 5'7.5
Norris has on 1in trainers and Lee has on .25in "kung-fu" shoes - I have a pair, they've got less height than flip-flops.
Now, Norris was either 5'8.5 or 5'9 in his peak. Norris has claimed 5'10 which is absurd. Given the picture evidence, we can conclude that Lee was easily 5'7.5, as stated in the majority of publications.
Like I have stated on this page, I've shook hands w/ both Dan Inosanto and Taki Kimura (this was 5yrs ago) - the former is 5'5, and Taki is around 5'6. Mind, Dan was 60ish at the time and Taki was close to 70, so they might have shrunk a bit.
Like I said years ago on this site, the Norris/Lee pics prove he's 5'7.5
Norris has on 1in trainers and Lee has on .25in "kung-fu" shoes - I have a pair, they've got less height than flip-flops.
Now, Norris was either 5'8.5 or 5'9 in his peak. Norris has claimed 5'10 which is absurd. Given the picture evidence, we can conclude that Lee was easily 5'7.5, as stated in the majority of publications.
Like I have stated on this page, I've shook hands w/ both Dan Inosanto and Taki Kimura (this was 5yrs ago) - the former is 5'5, and Taki is around 5'6. Mind, Dan was 60ish at the time and Taki was close to 70, so they might have shrunk a bit.
Randy said on 8/Aug/08
Vistor, why would Bruce Lee base his height with the hours of the morning? I myself lose the "morning" height relatively quickly. The measurement of 5'7.5" was most likely his day time height.
As for Bolo Yeung, let's look at an impartial view. Based on Lewis' comparison with his own height (6'0") Bruce Lee was 5'7" therefore atleast 1" taller than Bolo (5'6"). So 5'7.5" is a plausible height. Using pictures in order to discern half an inch pales in comparison to actually meeting the person. It's also reasonable to assume that BL's morning height was close to the range of 5'8" maybe 5'7.75" then falling down to 5'7.25" to 5'7.5" as the day progressed, which would corroborate Lewis' account of a solid 5'7".
Vistor, why would Bruce Lee base his height with the hours of the morning? I myself lose the "morning" height relatively quickly. The measurement of 5'7.5" was most likely his day time height.
As for Bolo Yeung, let's look at an impartial view. Based on Lewis' comparison with his own height (6'0") Bruce Lee was 5'7" therefore atleast 1" taller than Bolo (5'6"). So 5'7.5" is a plausible height. Using pictures in order to discern half an inch pales in comparison to actually meeting the person. It's also reasonable to assume that BL's morning height was close to the range of 5'8" maybe 5'7.75" then falling down to 5'7.25" to 5'7.5" as the day progressed, which would corroborate Lewis' account of a solid 5'7".
Brad said on 6/Aug/08
1 1/2" shorter than a 5' 8" Norris. He never was 5' 8". That would make him 5' 10" in the Green Hornet in Cuban heel boots. That's insane.
1 1/2" shorter than a 5' 8" Norris. He never was 5' 8". That would make him 5' 10" in the Green Hornet in Cuban heel boots. That's insane.
visitOr said on 5/Aug/08
But it is possible, if not likely, that Lee's 5'7.5" measurement is a (upward) rounded approximation. His actual morning height may have been on average something like 5'7.353293...", but it is usually pointless (unless you like this site) to specify inches with such accuracy. For this reason, an actual average morning height of ~ 5'7.25, should be considered consistent with Lee's own measurement. And it is, therefore, entirely plausible that Lee sunk into the top of the 5'6 range (5'6.75), in the later half of the day. Besides, Bruce really looked just as tall as Bolo Yeung, and Chuck Norris had a solid 1.5-2 inches on him.
But it is possible, if not likely, that Lee's 5'7.5" measurement is a (upward) rounded approximation. His actual morning height may have been on average something like 5'7.353293...", but it is usually pointless (unless you like this site) to specify inches with such accuracy. For this reason, an actual average morning height of ~ 5'7.25, should be considered consistent with Lee's own measurement. And it is, therefore, entirely plausible that Lee sunk into the top of the 5'6 range (5'6.75), in the later half of the day. Besides, Bruce really looked just as tall as Bolo Yeung, and Chuck Norris had a solid 1.5-2 inches on him.
Guy said on 5/Aug/08
Took a look at Bruce Lee's Art of Expressing the Human Body. There is a page with very extensive body measurements. Bicep resting and flexed. Calf, wrist, chest expanded and not, waist, thigh etc etc.....These were all meticulously denoted by Bruce, I assume on a regular basis. He states his height as 5'7.5". Let's face it, 1-2" embellishment in height can throw off such a table of measurements. He had rounded his height up some time before to 5'8", but it appears later he became more serious. No doubt someone measured his height at some point as with other difficult measurements. He was taller than 5'6" Bolo in Enter the Dragon, and matched up well with 5'8.5" Chuck Norris.
Took a look at Bruce Lee's Art of Expressing the Human Body. There is a page with very extensive body measurements. Bicep resting and flexed. Calf, wrist, chest expanded and not, waist, thigh etc etc.....These were all meticulously denoted by Bruce, I assume on a regular basis. He states his height as 5'7.5". Let's face it, 1-2" embellishment in height can throw off such a table of measurements. He had rounded his height up some time before to 5'8", but it appears later he became more serious. No doubt someone measured his height at some point as with other difficult measurements. He was taller than 5'6" Bolo in Enter the Dragon, and matched up well with 5'8.5" Chuck Norris.
randy said on 2/Aug/08
oops.. Lewis measured him at 5'7" NOT 5'7.5"
oops.. Lewis measured him at 5'7" NOT 5'7.5"
randy said on 30/Jul/08
Visitor, Lewis worked with Bruce Lee sometimes entire days and still measured him at 5'7.5", and that's likely without shoes. So I could defnitely see Bl's "morning" height to be around 5'8" while slumping down to 5'7" to 5'7.5 during the day.
Visitor, Lewis worked with Bruce Lee sometimes entire days and still measured him at 5'7.5", and that's likely without shoes. So I could defnitely see Bl's "morning" height to be around 5'8" while slumping down to 5'7" to 5'7.5 during the day.
visitOr said on 30/Jul/08
Here is Bruce Next to Jhoon Rhee (Listed at 5'4, World BlackBelt online). Click Here
As it appears, Bruce has a 1 inch height advantage over Mr. Rhee (Bruce is slouching at the waist, just a bit). I'll also assume that Mr. Rhee, is wearing standard 1 inch shoes. Finally, I'll also assume Mr. Rhee stands 5'4.5. (not at the low end of 5'4).
This generous estimate would still make Bruce only 5'6.5".
Really, I can't see how he could have been taller than 5'7.5"
Bruce walked around at, probably, 5'7 to 5'7.5", and likely sank down into the upper 5'6 range through the day.
Here is Bruce Next to Jhoon Rhee (Listed at 5'4, World BlackBelt online). Click Here
As it appears, Bruce has a 1 inch height advantage over Mr. Rhee (Bruce is slouching at the waist, just a bit). I'll also assume that Mr. Rhee, is wearing standard 1 inch shoes. Finally, I'll also assume Mr. Rhee stands 5'4.5. (not at the low end of 5'4).
This generous estimate would still make Bruce only 5'6.5".
Really, I can't see how he could have been taller than 5'7.5"
Bruce walked around at, probably, 5'7 to 5'7.5", and likely sank down into the upper 5'6 range through the day.
visitOr said on 30/Jul/08
Judging from the picture, it looks like a solid 2 inches for Chuck. There is no way this guy stood a solid 5'8. 5'7 1/2 MAX, Minimum 5'6 1/2, So About 5'7 even sounds right.
Judging from the picture, it looks like a solid 2 inches for Chuck. There is no way this guy stood a solid 5'8. 5'7 1/2 MAX, Minimum 5'6 1/2, So About 5'7 even sounds right.
Guy said on 25/Jul/08
Chuck is in front of Bruce in that Photo as well. Their height is similar, judging from how Bruce's arm is straight as it goes around Chuck's shoulder. There's probably no more than 1 inch difference with these factors.
Chuck is in front of Bruce in that Photo as well. Their height is similar, judging from how Bruce's arm is straight as it goes around Chuck's shoulder. There's probably no more than 1 inch difference with these factors.
Brad said on 22/Jul/08
John Saxon is 5' 9", I've met him and the rest of the cast of "Enter The Dragon" including Lee in '67. Saxon has Lee beat by 2 1/2". Both in thin soles. Fits what I met in '67, he's not 5' 7". A 5' 8" Chuck Norris has Lee beat by 1 1/2". Lee's wife said 5' 6".
John Saxon is 5' 9", I've met him and the rest of the cast of "Enter The Dragon" including Lee in '67. Saxon has Lee beat by 2 1/2". Both in thin soles. Fits what I met in '67, he's not 5' 7". A 5' 8" Chuck Norris has Lee beat by 1 1/2". Lee's wife said 5' 6".
Arnold82 said on 19/Jun/08
Probably like 5'6-5'7. Chuck always had around a couple inches on him, and my friend (5'8') has met Chuck, and said there is no way that he clears 5'8. Bruce is just about as tall as Bolo Yung in the movie Enter the Dragon, and Bolo is always listed as 5'6. So I really don't think Bruce was close to 5'8. 5'7 is very reasonable, but he may well have been a little under that. Almost all actors will exaggerate their heights a bit, so I can't see how the WebMaster finds worth in personal claims (the only worth to such claims, is setting an upper limit).
Probably like 5'6-5'7. Chuck always had around a couple inches on him, and my friend (5'8') has met Chuck, and said there is no way that he clears 5'8. Bruce is just about as tall as Bolo Yung in the movie Enter the Dragon, and Bolo is always listed as 5'6. So I really don't think Bruce was close to 5'8. 5'7 is very reasonable, but he may well have been a little under that. Almost all actors will exaggerate their heights a bit, so I can't see how the WebMaster finds worth in personal claims (the only worth to such claims, is setting an upper limit).
Randy said on 30/May/08
I like to add something. Joe Lewis in his book has stated that Bruce Lee was 5"7; and he likely gauged the measurement using vision. So 5"7 1/2 is very reasonable.
I like to add something. Joe Lewis in his book has stated that Bruce Lee was 5"7; and he likely gauged the measurement using vision. So 5"7 1/2 is very reasonable.
Masaoken said on 28/May/08
BTW, did I mention how the "H'w'd" culture lies??
We all know about the old days when studios used to change names, but what we find when we do a little research; is that names, ages, measurements, parentage, police records and even genders are falsified!
'Stars' are held to a different standard that real people. Imagine what roles some stars would be playing if normal standards applied. Example- "Iron Man" would be playing "Behind Iron Bars Man".
Don't believe everything you read in "official" documents.
;)
BTW, did I mention how the "H'w'd" culture lies??
We all know about the old days when studios used to change names, but what we find when we do a little research; is that names, ages, measurements, parentage, police records and even genders are falsified!
'Stars' are held to a different standard that real people. Imagine what roles some stars would be playing if normal standards applied. Example- "Iron Man" would be playing "Behind Iron Bars Man".
Don't believe everything you read in "official" documents.
;)
Masaoken said on 28/May/08
In this current society, height is even more important than breast size or IQ or moral integrity. Sadly, within a certain range, height is the least important of all attributes.
I recently saw a television program which referred to 5'7" as small...in the 1920's! This shows a general ignorance about how height has changed in the past 100 years; and how little we pay attention.
Today, women in the USA think of themselves as short at 5'6". Less than 75 years ago, 5'4" was considered a very tall woman! This leap in height is recent in human history. Napoleon was average in his time and just as tall as Julius Caesar...who was considered a tall man in his time.
Another problem is "Hollywood". "H'w'd" insists that 'taller is better' and bases a lot of its selling power on that myth. Stars like Michael J. Fox, and Alan Ladd were both under 5'6". The mythology of star height was so powerful that the Movieland wax portarit of Alan Ladd was increased to 4" to 5'8" to measure up to expectations!
Also, the idea that modern information is somehow more accurate than old information is simply a flawed assumption. Like the accuracy argument of Metric vs English, accuracy is not about "easy", it is about what is actually true.
So, if Lee were 5'2, would it really matter? I don't think should.
In this current society, height is even more important than breast size or IQ or moral integrity. Sadly, within a certain range, height is the least important of all attributes.
I recently saw a television program which referred to 5'7" as small...in the 1920's! This shows a general ignorance about how height has changed in the past 100 years; and how little we pay attention.
Today, women in the USA think of themselves as short at 5'6". Less than 75 years ago, 5'4" was considered a very tall woman! This leap in height is recent in human history. Napoleon was average in his time and just as tall as Julius Caesar...who was considered a tall man in his time.
Another problem is "Hollywood". "H'w'd" insists that 'taller is better' and bases a lot of its selling power on that myth. Stars like Michael J. Fox, and Alan Ladd were both under 5'6". The mythology of star height was so powerful that the Movieland wax portarit of Alan Ladd was increased to 4" to 5'8" to measure up to expectations!
Also, the idea that modern information is somehow more accurate than old information is simply a flawed assumption. Like the accuracy argument of Metric vs English, accuracy is not about "easy", it is about what is actually true.
So, if Lee were 5'2, would it really matter? I don't think should.
Guido G. said on 20/May/08
I think Bruce was a tad over 5'7 or a tad under 5'8, so probably 171-172 cm
I think Bruce was a tad over 5'7 or a tad under 5'8, so probably 171-172 cm
Yaspaa said on 5/May/08
I think you are a little over with your japanese average height there Rik,also Bruce's mother was of chinese and german descent,which may explain his longer limbs. Here are some averages by country. Click Here
I think you are a little over with your japanese average height there Rik,also Bruce's mother was of chinese and german descent,which may explain his longer limbs. Here are some averages by country. Click Here
Charley said on 28/Apr/08
I agree but what point are you trying to make?
I agree but what point are you trying to make?
Heightdetective said on 28/Apr/08
I agree, Scott.
I agree, Scott.
Scott said on 20/Apr/08
5"8 isn't short for someone living in Hong Kong even nowadays. Average height for asians is about 5"6.
5"8 isn't short for someone living in Hong Kong even nowadays. Average height for asians is about 5"6.
Yaspaa said on 19/Apr/08
He definitely never looked under 5'7,except when he was a kid of course.
He definitely never looked under 5'7,except when he was a kid of course.
glenn said on 18/Apr/08
bruce is like tom cruise.no shorter than 5-7 and possibly 5-8.
bruce is like tom cruise.no shorter than 5-7 and possibly 5-8.
Charley said on 17/Apr/08
I think between 5'6 1/2" and 5'7 1/2" would be pretty accurate, no more no less. Anyone agree with me?
I think between 5'6 1/2" and 5'7 1/2" would be pretty accurate, no more no less. Anyone agree with me?
Yaspaa said on 5/Apr/08
33 'statures' lol, would be 5'6 exactly.
33 'statures' lol, would be 5'6 exactly.
Yaspaa said on 5/Apr/08
Thanks for the info jinpimp,that exercise looks a killer. I also train just to keep fit but these meatheads who keeps saying bruce wasn't that strong really annoy me.
Thanks for the info jinpimp,that exercise looks a killer. I also train just to keep fit but these meatheads who keeps saying bruce wasn't that strong really annoy me.
Vizitor said on 28/Mar/08
This is exactly why they should have a new unit for human height. Maybe they should call it "statures". If 1 stature = 2 inches, they would say bruce was 33 statures tall, which means between 5'6-5'8. Then we wouldn't have these types of arguments.
This is exactly why they should have a new unit for human height. Maybe they should call it "statures". If 1 stature = 2 inches, they would say bruce was 33 statures tall, which means between 5'6-5'8. Then we wouldn't have these types of arguments.
jinpimp said on 25/Mar/08
to add to yaspaa's comment, and to clarify, on bruce's back injury. yes, it was 125 lbs, but ummm, I'd put at least $100 on the fact that many of us in this forum wouldn't be able to do the excercise he was doing with more than 75 lbs on their backs without hurting themselves. The excercise was the "good morning" (that's what we call it at the gym) it's when you stand, feet together, weight on your shoulders, and you bend over and try to hit 90 degrees. It's extremely hard once you get into the mid weights, and it's quite easy to mess up and hurt yourself. Your lower back muscle isn't the strongest in your body, and the fact that he was using 125 lbs on THAT excercise, and at his height and build, is extraordinary. For the record, I'm 5'11" 182 lbs, and I've only gotten to 80 lbs on a good morning. And also, i know guys that are his height, and just as wiry who can max bench just as much as me (~270lbs) and weigh less than me. I just weight train to keep in shape, not for any competitions or anything like that, and the same goes for my aforementioned friends.
Click Here
cheers
to add to yaspaa's comment, and to clarify, on bruce's back injury. yes, it was 125 lbs, but ummm, I'd put at least $100 on the fact that many of us in this forum wouldn't be able to do the excercise he was doing with more than 75 lbs on their backs without hurting themselves. The excercise was the "good morning" (that's what we call it at the gym) it's when you stand, feet together, weight on your shoulders, and you bend over and try to hit 90 degrees. It's extremely hard once you get into the mid weights, and it's quite easy to mess up and hurt yourself. Your lower back muscle isn't the strongest in your body, and the fact that he was using 125 lbs on THAT excercise, and at his height and build, is extraordinary. For the record, I'm 5'11" 182 lbs, and I've only gotten to 80 lbs on a good morning. And also, i know guys that are his height, and just as wiry who can max bench just as much as me (~270lbs) and weigh less than me. I just weight train to keep in shape, not for any competitions or anything like that, and the same goes for my aforementioned friends.
Click Here
cheers
guy said on 9/Mar/08
Strangely enough, Bob Wall didn't tower over Bruce as much as you'd think in Enter. Bob's character, O'Hara, was supposed to be a massive man at 6'6" in that film, just a goon. Bruce definately looked closer to 5'8" than 5'6". He looked tall next to 5'6" Bolo and even a little taller than the tubby shaolin fighter at the beginning who is listed at 5'7". Definately not 5'6" but almost 5'8".
Strangely enough, Bob Wall didn't tower over Bruce as much as you'd think in Enter. Bob's character, O'Hara, was supposed to be a massive man at 6'6" in that film, just a goon. Bruce definately looked closer to 5'8" than 5'6". He looked tall next to 5'6" Bolo and even a little taller than the tubby shaolin fighter at the beginning who is listed at 5'7". Definately not 5'6" but almost 5'8".
Charley said on 7/Mar/08
No way 5'8", I would say 5'7" maximum, no more and no less. Incidentally, Mr Anonymous, which biography of his says he was 5'6"? I have read several and they all put him at 5'71/2" to 5'8", I am not doubting you, I would just be interested to know which biography you have read.
No way 5'8", I would say 5'7" maximum, no more and no less. Incidentally, Mr Anonymous, which biography of his says he was 5'6"? I have read several and they all put him at 5'71/2" to 5'8", I am not doubting you, I would just be interested to know which biography you have read.
TNTinCA said on 5/Mar/08
Definitely no taller than this.
I was at a wax museum once that had a replica of Bruce Lee. 5'7.5" at the absolute maximum. I would even say closer to 5'7".
Definitely no taller than this.
I was at a wax museum once that had a replica of Bruce Lee. 5'7.5" at the absolute maximum. I would even say closer to 5'7".
Anonymous said on 5/Mar/08
bs i read several of his bios too and he's always been quoted as around 5-7 or 5-8 by himself or others. which one did you read and what was the page number saying he was 5-6? didn't think so. ;)
bs i read several of his bios too and he's always been quoted as around 5-7 or 5-8 by himself or others. which one did you read and what was the page number saying he was 5-6? didn't think so. ;)
Mr anonymous said on 4/Mar/08
5 foot 8 yeah right.i've got his biography and he's 5'6
5 foot 8 yeah right.i've got his biography and he's 5'6
Daniel said on 1/Mar/08
I love him lot and i think he is 172
I love him lot and i think he is 172
guy said on 28/Feb/08
I a Bob Wall interview, Bob says he was 6'1" and 202 lbs for Enter the Dragon and Bruce was 5'7" and 150 lbs at his max. Bruce may have weighed a little more at his max size but was clearly less than that in Enter at maybe 135. Most likely Bruce was 5'7 1/2" and so could claim 5'8". He was very precise and scientific about his body and so likely was very factual about his self assessment. Besides 5'7"-8" wouldn't have been very short in Hong Kong during the 50s.
I a Bob Wall interview, Bob says he was 6'1" and 202 lbs for Enter the Dragon and Bruce was 5'7" and 150 lbs at his max. Bruce may have weighed a little more at his max size but was clearly less than that in Enter at maybe 135. Most likely Bruce was 5'7 1/2" and so could claim 5'8". He was very precise and scientific about his body and so likely was very factual about his self assessment. Besides 5'7"-8" wouldn't have been very short in Hong Kong during the 50s.
Anon said on 28/Feb/08
But Chuck was at least 5-8 and most likely 5-9 in his prime, so that'd put Bruce at 5-7 to 5-8.
But Chuck was at least 5-8 and most likely 5-9 in his prime, so that'd put Bruce at 5-7 to 5-8.
Baller190CM said on 8/Feb/08
He is 5'6-5'7, in movies he had a thin cut and was only about an inch shorter than chuck.
He is 5'6-5'7, in movies he had a thin cut and was only about an inch shorter than chuck.
Realheight 88 said on 30/Jan/08
5-7.5 (nightime height) fits perfect for bruce lee.I'm 5-7.5 at night too and i strongly believe that lee was as tall as me.
5-7.5 (nightime height) fits perfect for bruce lee.I'm 5-7.5 at night too and i strongly believe that lee was as tall as me.
Yaspaa said on 30/Jan/08
Sorry "Just because you DONT train in martial arts doesn't make your opinion any less valid." is what I mean't to say.
Sorry "Just because you DONT train in martial arts doesn't make your opinion any less valid." is what I mean't to say.
Yaspaa said on 30/Jan/08
I don't see how being alive when Bruce was alive would make you any more knowledgeable,unless you knew him personally.There is a far greater wealth of readily available information on Bruce now than there ever was. I studied shotokan karate for 5 years,just because you train in martial arts doesn't make your opinion any less valid,if someone is a great singer you don't have to be a singer to realise that.I really don't see the point of your comment.
I don't see how being alive when Bruce was alive would make you any more knowledgeable,unless you knew him personally.There is a far greater wealth of readily available information on Bruce now than there ever was. I studied shotokan karate for 5 years,just because you train in martial arts doesn't make your opinion any less valid,if someone is a great singer you don't have to be a singer to realise that.I really don't see the point of your comment.
bmike said on 29/Jan/08
A lot of people make comments on bruce lee weren't even born when he was a live and if you've never taken martial arts really shouldn't comment about things dealing with it. Anyone can read about this and that, but to actually train is a whole different story.
A lot of people make comments on bruce lee weren't even born when he was a live and if you've never taken martial arts really shouldn't comment about things dealing with it. Anyone can read about this and that, but to actually train is a whole different story.
Anon said on 27/Jan/08
Bruce doesn't even need to use ANY weight whatsoever to rip a muscle by doing crazy exercises like THIS!
Click Here
The man's a legend and was clearly at least 5-7 or more.. all you "keyboard warriors" out there must feel pretty big on yourselves putting down Bruce.. isn't that right tough guy?! ;)
Bruce doesn't even need to use ANY weight whatsoever to rip a muscle by doing crazy exercises like THIS!
Click Here
The man's a legend and was clearly at least 5-7 or more.. all you "keyboard warriors" out there must feel pretty big on yourselves putting down Bruce.. isn't that right tough guy?! ;)
yaspaa said on 24/Jan/08
Melvin,saying that a good boxer could beat a good martial artist is absolutely ridiculous. A martial artist has a far greater arsonal.Bruce would remove ali's kneecap before he could throw a punch! As for his ripped back muscle,this was due to an improper warm up which he rushed due to a lack of time. As for his strength,who cares if he couldn't press 300lbs there is no point in doing that anyway,he trained for speed,speed translates to power. Yes he did damage his back lifting a 125lb weight which is relatively light but he used this kind of weight for stamina training and saying he was weak because of the "light" weight is ****ing stupid.
I am also sick of other top martial artists putting him down,they seem very brave now that he is dead.
Bruce Lee's legacy has transferred into the UFC where he has been referred to as the greatest martial artist in the history of the universe,the UFC's fighters all use techniques from different styles to become more complete fighters which is what Bruce was doing 35+ years ago. Would martial arts fighters be as rounded today without Bruce,of course not.Oh erm I'll go with 5'7".
Melvin,saying that a good boxer could beat a good martial artist is absolutely ridiculous. A martial artist has a far greater arsonal.Bruce would remove ali's kneecap before he could throw a punch! As for his ripped back muscle,this was due to an improper warm up which he rushed due to a lack of time. As for his strength,who cares if he couldn't press 300lbs there is no point in doing that anyway,he trained for speed,speed translates to power. Yes he did damage his back lifting a 125lb weight which is relatively light but he used this kind of weight for stamina training and saying he was weak because of the "light" weight is ****ing stupid.
I am also sick of other top martial artists putting him down,they seem very brave now that he is dead.
Bruce Lee's legacy has transferred into the UFC where he has been referred to as the greatest martial artist in the history of the universe,the UFC's fighters all use techniques from different styles to become more complete fighters which is what Bruce was doing 35+ years ago. Would martial arts fighters be as rounded today without Bruce,of course not.Oh erm I'll go with 5'7".
Anon said on 8/Dec/07
"Bruce lee was 5'7 1/2 according to his own book. I'm going to guess this means he was between 5'6 1/2 and 5'7"
Lol, that's awesome logic there buddy! If someone says they're some height you just automatically assume they're 1" shorter?! Wtf?! Not everyone exaggerates their height. Basically you're calling Bruce Lee a liar - think about it. He even gives it to an exact 1/2", which means he's trying to be precise and honest. He could have rounded up to 5-8 if he wanted to.
"Bruce lee was 5'7 1/2 according to his own book. I'm going to guess this means he was between 5'6 1/2 and 5'7"
Lol, that's awesome logic there buddy! If someone says they're some height you just automatically assume they're 1" shorter?! Wtf?! Not everyone exaggerates their height. Basically you're calling Bruce Lee a liar - think about it. He even gives it to an exact 1/2", which means he's trying to be precise and honest. He could have rounded up to 5-8 if he wanted to.
Randy said on 6/Dec/07
WingChung, somebody posted a picture of Bolo and Bruce together. Bruce is apparently an inch taller.
WingChung, somebody posted a picture of Bolo and Bruce together. Bruce is apparently an inch taller.
Brah said on 5/Dec/07
They do not measure you for your driver's license in the US, Colin Firth.
They do not measure you for your driver's license in the US, Colin Firth.
glenn said on 4/Dec/07
bolo was mentioned at 5-6 in the 80s.
bolo was mentioned at 5-6 in the 80s.
Law said on 4/Dec/07
He always stand beside American people,so we saw like very small.but when he stand beside chinese he was almost taller than many chinese people
He always stand beside American people,so we saw like very small.but when he stand beside chinese he was almost taller than many chinese people
Law said on 4/Dec/07
He Was quite tall man,when I saw his photo when he was wearing normal cloth.so he is may be around 171-173cm tall.
He Was quite tall man,when I saw his photo when he was wearing normal cloth.so he is may be around 171-173cm tall.
WingChung said on 4/Dec/07
Bruce lee was 5'7 1/2 according to his own book. I'm going to guess this means he was between 5'6 1/2 and 5'7. I know a chinese fighter in Enter the dragon, Bolo, was the same height as Bruce Lee. Bolo was probably an even 5'6 then because sites are listing him at 5'5 today.
Bruce lee was 5'7 1/2 according to his own book. I'm going to guess this means he was between 5'6 1/2 and 5'7. I know a chinese fighter in Enter the dragon, Bolo, was the same height as Bruce Lee. Bolo was probably an even 5'6 then because sites are listing him at 5'5 today.
Colin Firth said on 3/Dec/07
Randy, i have heard it said before over the internet. And Melvin mentioned it here a while back if you scroll down the page. Also Bruce was measured for his driving license and was 5ft 8 inches. So it is not a crime to say Bruce lee was 5ft 8 inches tall.
Randy, i have heard it said before over the internet. And Melvin mentioned it here a while back if you scroll down the page. Also Bruce was measured for his driving license and was 5ft 8 inches. So it is not a crime to say Bruce lee was 5ft 8 inches tall.
Randy said on 30/Nov/07
Colin Firth, what source states BL being 5"6 during the postmortem examination?
Colin Firth, what source states BL being 5"6 during the postmortem examination?
Colin Firth said on 27/Nov/07
Bruce Lee on the mortuary slab has been said was around 5ft 6.5 inches. Well that explains where that height came from. When you are dead you are not extending your spine are you? Even on the day Bruce died if he stood up straight he woiuld probably have extended to 5ft 8inches.
And i cant believe Bruce haters are talking about Bruce martial ability here as well. Bruces fighting ability was beyond question. He was the best.
Bruce Lee on the mortuary slab has been said was around 5ft 6.5 inches. Well that explains where that height came from. When you are dead you are not extending your spine are you? Even on the day Bruce died if he stood up straight he woiuld probably have extended to 5ft 8inches.
And i cant believe Bruce haters are talking about Bruce martial ability here as well. Bruces fighting ability was beyond question. He was the best.
AnonsenseBuster said on 9/Nov/07
What did Jerome say? I guess his comments were removed. Was he the nutty Robert R. / SirCharles / St Andrews / Electric06 stirring up trouble again? Good riddance of that bigot whatever the reason!
If Bruce Lee was really 5'6" barefoot, he would have claimed to be 5'7" at most, not 5'8". Ponder that thought.
Editor Rob
What did Jerome say? I guess his comments were removed. Was he the nutty Robert R. / SirCharles / St Andrews / Electric06 stirring up trouble again? Good riddance of that bigot whatever the reason!
If Bruce Lee was really 5'6" barefoot, he would have claimed to be 5'7" at most, not 5'8". Ponder that thought.
Editor Rob you don't need a degree in detectivology to figure out the 5 names used.
leonari said on 7/Nov/07
Jerome: leave. can't you see we don't want you here. You are not welcome. get lost.
Jerome: leave. can't you see we don't want you here. You are not welcome. get lost.
glenn said on 7/Nov/07
go fuk yourself jerome.leave rob alone and leave the site.
go fuk yourself jerome.leave rob alone and leave the site.
AnonsenseBuster said on 2/Nov/07
All I can say is, I'm not really as nutty as I sound. Sometimes it just takes a little nonsense to battle psycho nutcases like Robert R. You can only battle a fool by being one, fight fire with fire. Some of you guys are new to this thread. Robert R. once posted here under another alias "Electric06" and admitted to having a biased tendency to downgrade "short" asian martial-arts movie stars like Bruce, Jet or Jackie. He was also pretty psycho in the Jackie Chan page as well. The rest of you are cool. And Bruce was 5'7.5". Peace out.
All I can say is, I'm not really as nutty as I sound. Sometimes it just takes a little nonsense to battle psycho nutcases like Robert R. You can only battle a fool by being one, fight fire with fire. Some of you guys are new to this thread. Robert R. once posted here under another alias "Electric06" and admitted to having a biased tendency to downgrade "short" asian martial-arts movie stars like Bruce, Jet or Jackie. He was also pretty psycho in the Jackie Chan page as well. The rest of you are cool. And Bruce was 5'7.5". Peace out.
jo said on 31/Oct/07
i think this guy is taller.i think he is 177 because john saxon in enter the dragon is 179 and lee is as tall as him
i think this guy is taller.i think he is 177 because john saxon in enter the dragon is 179 and lee is as tall as him
Dunken said on 31/Oct/07
dude, there's a ton of people on this page claming 5'7 and below, including me. are we all Robert. R???
dude, there's a ton of people on this page claming 5'7 and below, including me. are we all Robert. R???
AnonsenseBuster said on 31/Oct/07
Robert R. / Elmore I'm calling your bluff and it ain't foolin nobody else either. First of all that crock of a story about your grampa, even if it were true, people shrink as they grow old as everyone knows so he may have been well taller in 68 and since when does anyone remember their height to the exact 0.5" almost 40 years ago?! Secondly, UR the ONLY one who supports 5'6.5" for Bruce Lee, and have been doing so for months on this thread. Look how many other people disagree with that height?! So how convenient it is for some "mystery" poster from outta nowhere coming in randomly presuming the same ludicrous 5'6.5 as you? Thirdly, you ain't foolin anybody with the reverse-psychology "I want everyone to think he's short but he was awesome blahblahblah"... bull - ur a hatah. And lastly, if you don't know from other parts of this site, Editor Rob keeps tabs on people and know where they post from, 10-1 Robert R. + Elmore come from the same town and IP.
Robert R. / Elmore I'm calling your bluff and it ain't foolin nobody else either. First of all that crock of a story about your grampa, even if it were true, people shrink as they grow old as everyone knows so he may have been well taller in 68 and since when does anyone remember their height to the exact 0.5" almost 40 years ago?! Secondly, UR the ONLY one who supports 5'6.5" for Bruce Lee, and have been doing so for months on this thread. Look how many other people disagree with that height?! So how convenient it is for some "mystery" poster from outta nowhere coming in randomly presuming the same ludicrous 5'6.5 as you? Thirdly, you ain't foolin anybody with the reverse-psychology "I want everyone to think he's short but he was awesome blahblahblah"... bull - ur a hatah. And lastly, if you don't know from other parts of this site, Editor Rob keeps tabs on people and know where they post from, 10-1 Robert R. + Elmore come from the same town and IP.
AnonsenseBuster said on 29/Oct/07
Whoever can't see that Bruce is clearly at least 1" taller than Bolo from the pic below is either in serious need of eyeglasses, or in serious denial, or crappy at telling height or all of the above. Bruce owns Bolo at shoulder, chin, eye and head height but at least 1" while wearing very thin Chinese slippers which is practically barefeet. And Elmore is obviously Robert R. in disguise.
Whoever can't see that Bruce is clearly at least 1" taller than Bolo from the pic below is either in serious need of eyeglasses, or in serious denial, or crappy at telling height or all of the above. Bruce owns Bolo at shoulder, chin, eye and head height but at least 1" while wearing very thin Chinese slippers which is practically barefeet. And Elmore is obviously Robert R. in disguise.
steph said on 26/Oct/07
5 7.5 looks right
5 7.5 looks right
Colin Firth said on 25/Oct/07
Bruce Lees daughter is 5ft 9inches. So Bruce Lee being 5ft 8inches is correct in my opinion.
Bruce Lees daughter is 5ft 9inches. So Bruce Lee being 5ft 8inches is correct in my opinion.
glenn said on 22/Oct/07
i agree that 5-8 was possible.not all of the rest that you wrote.
i agree that 5-8 was possible.not all of the rest that you wrote.
Colin Firth said on 21/Oct/07
Bruce may well have been 5ft 8inches. He is quite short looking in his films, but that is because he is always wearing Kung Fu shoes. But 5ft 7.5, or 5ft 8. What is there worth arguing over 1/2 an inch. We shold just see him as 5ft 8 and leave it at that. Tom Cruise would round the figure for himself up that is for sure, and so would Dustin Hoffman and Jackie Chan and Ben Stiller.
Bruce may well have been 5ft 8inches. He is quite short looking in his films, but that is because he is always wearing Kung Fu shoes. But 5ft 7.5, or 5ft 8. What is there worth arguing over 1/2 an inch. We shold just see him as 5ft 8 and leave it at that. Tom Cruise would round the figure for himself up that is for sure, and so would Dustin Hoffman and Jackie Chan and Ben Stiller.
Colin Firth said on 21/Oct/07
Bruce was 5ft 7.5 as has been said. Robert Lee in his youth probably was 5ft7 but as an old man now he might have shrunk. Bob Wall has described Bruce as 5ft 10inches on one occasion. Bruce was relatively small but on screen you can tell he had long limbs, ie arms and legs. So he wasnt 5ft 6inches at all.
Bruce was 5ft 7.5 as has been said. Robert Lee in his youth probably was 5ft7 but as an old man now he might have shrunk. Bob Wall has described Bruce as 5ft 10inches on one occasion. Bruce was relatively small but on screen you can tell he had long limbs, ie arms and legs. So he wasnt 5ft 6inches at all.
Robert R. said on 14/Oct/07
Also Randy, I don't doubt your intelligence for one moment. In fact I think you are probably a very intelligent person and the fact that you have got Bruce Lee's height wrong doesn't alter the respect I have for you. I do agree Bruce was about one inch taller than Robert Lee and you are right, I haven't met Robert Lee, I would like to meet him however, so I could measure him and I would bet good odds he is nearer 5'5" than 5'7" which plus inch would put Bruce back in the 5'6" range.
Also Randy, I don't doubt your intelligence for one moment. In fact I think you are probably a very intelligent person and the fact that you have got Bruce Lee's height wrong doesn't alter the respect I have for you. I do agree Bruce was about one inch taller than Robert Lee and you are right, I haven't met Robert Lee, I would like to meet him however, so I could measure him and I would bet good odds he is nearer 5'5" than 5'7" which plus inch would put Bruce back in the 5'6" range.
Robert R. said on 14/Oct/07
This page is addictive. I have tried cold turkey and it doesn't work.
Anon I have just looked at that picture you posted. Are you seriously saying that you can see a clear 1.5" difference between Bruce Lee and Bolo Yeung?
This page is addictive. I have tried cold turkey and it doesn't work.
Anon I have just looked at that picture you posted. Are you seriously saying that you can see a clear 1.5" difference between Bruce Lee and Bolo Yeung?
Anon said on 14/Oct/07
Trudat Randy, our obsessed friend Robert R. shall surely be back, lol. He claims he's bored with discussing Bruce's height when he writes essay after essay downgrading Bruce's height with not a spec of evidence to back his claims, and gets all emotional when anyone intelligent like you challenges his lofty arguments.
Here is a picture of Bruce clearly standing 1.5" taller than 5'6" Bolo Yeung in this nice full-body shot of both of them on the set of ETD:
Click Here
Case closed!
(but ur right Randy, RobR-boy shall surely be back to re-open the case and refute this one, and continue on perpetuating his obsessive denial! I'll love him for it too!) ;)
Trudat Randy, our obsessed friend Robert R. shall surely be back, lol. He claims he's bored with discussing Bruce's height when he writes essay after essay downgrading Bruce's height with not a spec of evidence to back his claims, and gets all emotional when anyone intelligent like you challenges his lofty arguments.
Here is a picture of Bruce clearly standing 1.5" taller than 5'6" Bolo Yeung in this nice full-body shot of both of them on the set of ETD:
Click Here
Case closed!
(but ur right Randy, RobR-boy shall surely be back to re-open the case and refute this one, and continue on perpetuating his obsessive denial! I'll love him for it too!) ;)
Randy said on 13/Oct/07
Oh, forgot to mention, when a person sleeps their spine relaxes, therefore, when they wake up, they're slightly bit taller! It goes down as the day progresses due to compression and fatigueness of back muscles. So Bruce Lee could've pushed that (5 ft 7.5 in) height to 5"8 when he was sleeping! Anyways, I think he was 5"8 regardless of beauty rest:)
Oh, forgot to mention, when a person sleeps their spine relaxes, therefore, when they wake up, they're slightly bit taller! It goes down as the day progresses due to compression and fatigueness of back muscles. So Bruce Lee could've pushed that (5 ft 7.5 in) height to 5"8 when he was sleeping! Anyways, I think he was 5"8 regardless of beauty rest:)
Randy said on 13/Oct/07
Way to use exaggerate my statement; a Straw Man. What I meant is 5"8 mark. Sorry to tell you this but, posture sometimes has nothing do with contraction of the spine after an injury. A person can have a good posture and still be in pain; they don't have to bending like a sickly geriatric with a cane to show it. And your remarks about my intelligence only serves to weaken your argument, but hey, way to impugn your contention.
Also, how do you rationalize Robert Lee having a Napolean complex? Do you know him? Let me answer: no. You're contradicting your own line of reasoning: "he was 1" shorter than Bruce which I don't DOUBT" then go on to say, "he not only makes Bruce taller but he makes himself taller than what he is". Ergo: YOU ACTUALLY DOUBT ROBERT!!
Wow. Logic rules!! You'll respond back. I know it. And I'll love you for it, Robert R.
Way to use exaggerate my statement; a Straw Man. What I meant is 5"8 mark. Sorry to tell you this but, posture sometimes has nothing do with contraction of the spine after an injury. A person can have a good posture and still be in pain; they don't have to bending like a sickly geriatric with a cane to show it. And your remarks about my intelligence only serves to weaken your argument, but hey, way to impugn your contention.
Also, how do you rationalize Robert Lee having a Napolean complex? Do you know him? Let me answer: no. You're contradicting your own line of reasoning: "he was 1" shorter than Bruce which I don't DOUBT" then go on to say, "he not only makes Bruce taller but he makes himself taller than what he is". Ergo: YOU ACTUALLY DOUBT ROBERT!!
Wow. Logic rules!! You'll respond back. I know it. And I'll love you for it, Robert R.
Robert R. said on 13/Oct/07
Yes I knew Bruce Lee had a back injury, so does everyone else who knows anything about him but it clearly never effected his posture. Now I thought I was being generous saying 5'7" when in reality he was probably under but now it gets better, he nowe could have EXCEEDED the 5'8" range, why not round it off to 5'10" in fact why stop there? Lets make him 6ft shall we? Bruce Lee was a brilliant martial artiste, there was nothing he could not do in that field, unfortunately for him he could not make himself taller. As for Robert Lee, well it is clear he is a short guy and says he was 1" shorter than Bruce which I don't doubt, however, by saying Bruce was 5'8" he not only makes Bruce taller but he makes himself taller than what he is. Anyone with half a brain would have worked that out. People on here are letting their admiration of Bruce Lee cloud their judgement of his height, if it were anyone else but him I doubt if we would be even contemplating these ridiculous height claims. Anyway, the whole subject is boring me now. Have him at what height you like, have him at 7ft for all I care. I am done with it.
Yes I knew Bruce Lee had a back injury, so does everyone else who knows anything about him but it clearly never effected his posture. Now I thought I was being generous saying 5'7" when in reality he was probably under but now it gets better, he nowe could have EXCEEDED the 5'8" range, why not round it off to 5'10" in fact why stop there? Lets make him 6ft shall we? Bruce Lee was a brilliant martial artiste, there was nothing he could not do in that field, unfortunately for him he could not make himself taller. As for Robert Lee, well it is clear he is a short guy and says he was 1" shorter than Bruce which I don't doubt, however, by saying Bruce was 5'8" he not only makes Bruce taller but he makes himself taller than what he is. Anyone with half a brain would have worked that out. People on here are letting their admiration of Bruce Lee cloud their judgement of his height, if it were anyone else but him I doubt if we would be even contemplating these ridiculous height claims. Anyway, the whole subject is boring me now. Have him at what height you like, have him at 7ft for all I care. I am done with it.
Randy said on 13/Oct/07
Unreal. I'll believe Robert Lee than anyone here; he grew up, lived, talked with his brother, Bruce Lee. Some of you are using pictures to distinguish a few inches. *sarcastic grin*: That's really scientific. And some of you might not know, Bruce Lee had a back injury, which has been documented to reduce a person's height. A very healthy, robust Bruce Lee could've reached or exceeded the 5"8 range.
Unreal. I'll believe Robert Lee than anyone here; he grew up, lived, talked with his brother, Bruce Lee. Some of you are using pictures to distinguish a few inches. *sarcastic grin*: That's really scientific. And some of you might not know, Bruce Lee had a back injury, which has been documented to reduce a person's height. A very healthy, robust Bruce Lee could've reached or exceeded the 5"8 range.
Robert R said on 7/Oct/07
Whilst I agree that 1501bs-1551bs would make the average male of 5'6.5" look stockier than Bruce Lee, you have to take into consideration that muscle weighs heavier than fat and Bruce was probably all muscle without an ounce of fat on him, which could explain why he looked so lean at that weight.
Whilst I agree that 1501bs-1551bs would make the average male of 5'6.5" look stockier than Bruce Lee, you have to take into consideration that muscle weighs heavier than fat and Bruce was probably all muscle without an ounce of fat on him, which could explain why he looked so lean at that weight.
Robert R said on 7/Oct/07
You have made an interesting point Anon and I must confess I was not aware that you could lose height through dehydration. I could probably accept 5'7" maximum, I still think 5'7.5" would be pushing it.
You have made an interesting point Anon and I must confess I was not aware that you could lose height through dehydration. I could probably accept 5'7" maximum, I still think 5'7.5" would be pushing it.
Anon said on 7/Oct/07
About Bruce's height: he surely wasn't 5'8" but wasn't shorter than 5'7". 5'7"-5'7.5" seems most appropriate. He weighed 150-155lbs at his peak and would have appeared too stocky if he were in the 5'6-ish range. I'm currently 5'9" on the dot, pretty cut and weigh 150, and have about the same proportions and build as Bruce (although not quite as cut as him, but within a similar range). If I was 5'8" or 5'7" I know I'd be noticably stockier. He weighed only 128lb just before he died in filming ETD, was very cut and lean, but grossly dehydrated and not in the best health. I can perhaps buy him being 5'6.5" at that point, when not in his best of health (he was also overly stressed and lacked sleep and appetite). There were days in college when I was literally a poor starving student, overly stressed with school, finals and whatnot, but also had to live on only instant noodles for a whole year (thank god those days are long gone lol).. I eventualy got really sick and had to go to the doctor, and I was actually diagnosed with "scurvy" (dumbass me for not eating right in retrospect, lol). I also got weighed and measure, to which I shockingly found out I had lost 20lbs and 1.5" in height (130lbs, 5'7.5")! That's when I made up my mind to live a healthier lifestyle up to this day.. so with this in mind, I have no doubt in my mind that at peak health, Bruce Lee was at least 5'7" but less than 5'8".
About Bruce's height: he surely wasn't 5'8" but wasn't shorter than 5'7". 5'7"-5'7.5" seems most appropriate. He weighed 150-155lbs at his peak and would have appeared too stocky if he were in the 5'6-ish range. I'm currently 5'9" on the dot, pretty cut and weigh 150, and have about the same proportions and build as Bruce (although not quite as cut as him, but within a similar range). If I was 5'8" or 5'7" I know I'd be noticably stockier. He weighed only 128lb just before he died in filming ETD, was very cut and lean, but grossly dehydrated and not in the best health. I can perhaps buy him being 5'6.5" at that point, when not in his best of health (he was also overly stressed and lacked sleep and appetite). There were days in college when I was literally a poor starving student, overly stressed with school, finals and whatnot, but also had to live on only instant noodles for a whole year (thank god those days are long gone lol).. I eventualy got really sick and had to go to the doctor, and I was actually diagnosed with "scurvy" (dumbass me for not eating right in retrospect, lol). I also got weighed and measure, to which I shockingly found out I had lost 20lbs and 1.5" in height (130lbs, 5'7.5")! That's when I made up my mind to live a healthier lifestyle up to this day.. so with this in mind, I have no doubt in my mind that at peak health, Bruce Lee was at least 5'7" but less than 5'8".
Robert R said on 5/Oct/07
I agree entirely Leonari. I have been looking through alot of his photographs recently and he is short in comparison to almost everyone he is photographed with. I would say 5'61/2" maximum barefoot. Anyone who believes 5'8" needs their head examined in my opinion.
I agree entirely Leonari. I have been looking through alot of his photographs recently and he is short in comparison to almost everyone he is photographed with. I would say 5'61/2" maximum barefoot. Anyone who believes 5'8" needs their head examined in my opinion.
leonari said on 4/Oct/07
Strong 5'6 almost 5'7". those 5'8" claims to me are a joke
Strong 5'6 almost 5'7". those 5'8" claims to me are a joke
TJ401 said on 3/Oct/07
John saxon was probably only 5'9 1/2 in his prime. On the site they say he doesn't even look 5'8 today. Thats primarily why i think he was a low 5'7 at best.
John saxon was probably only 5'9 1/2 in his prime. On the site they say he doesn't even look 5'8 today. Thats primarily why i think he was a low 5'7 at best.
TJ401 said on 3/Oct/07
Chuck was probably just 5'8 in his prime. Bruce must have been at the high end of 5'6 or low end of 5'7. I think his own estimate of 5'7.5" includes shoes.
Chuck was probably just 5'8 in his prime. Bruce must have been at the high end of 5'6 or low end of 5'7. I think his own estimate of 5'7.5" includes shoes.
Anon said on 23/Sep/07
Bruce was awesome, way ahead of his time.
It basically comes down to this, an old chinese saying "same game, same rules, the big guy will always win". Bruce was always ahead of people in his time, and that's really what kept him the best during his time. But these days, martial-arts has really advanced, lots of it advancing from stuff Bruce developed 40+ years ago...
Meaning, not only do the biggest roided meat-heads in UFC have the benefit of modern science, medicine and (ahem) "supplements", they also have years of accumulated martial-arts knowledge including most of Bruce's tricks and techniques.
Put a prime Bruce in the Octagon today and he wouldn't stand a chance. But on the streets, his quick thinking and mental edge would many times (though not always) give him the edge over a beefier martial-artist. And being Bruce Lee, he probably would have some dirty little trick up his sleeves even if he were still alive today. Outside the octagon, an eye-gouge, throat-shot or nut-grab is all it takes to drop a 250lb killing machine... of course, if these big dudes knew all his tricks or had the same quick-wits as Bruce, then he'd once again be screwed...
Bruce was awesome, way ahead of his time.
It basically comes down to this, an old chinese saying "same game, same rules, the big guy will always win". Bruce was always ahead of people in his time, and that's really what kept him the best during his time. But these days, martial-arts has really advanced, lots of it advancing from stuff Bruce developed 40+ years ago...
Meaning, not only do the biggest roided meat-heads in UFC have the benefit of modern science, medicine and (ahem) "supplements", they also have years of accumulated martial-arts knowledge including most of Bruce's tricks and techniques.
Put a prime Bruce in the Octagon today and he wouldn't stand a chance. But on the streets, his quick thinking and mental edge would many times (though not always) give him the edge over a beefier martial-artist. And being Bruce Lee, he probably would have some dirty little trick up his sleeves even if he were still alive today. Outside the octagon, an eye-gouge, throat-shot or nut-grab is all it takes to drop a 250lb killing machine... of course, if these big dudes knew all his tricks or had the same quick-wits as Bruce, then he'd once again be screwed...
Anonymous2 said on 24/Aug/07
Right TJ.
Chuck's actually been shown to be 5'9" in his prime, 5'8.5" these days, and he never leaves the house with his big heeled boots, so I'm suprised anyone's been able to catch him less than 5'10" (most people out there think he's like 5'11").
Those same heels, possible lifts and cowboy boots also lead many to think he's 2"+ taller than Bruce Lee: e.g.
Click Here
But with similar footwear, they're actually pretty similar in height, within 1" or so:
Click Here
Click Here
Right TJ.
Chuck's actually been shown to be 5'9" in his prime, 5'8.5" these days, and he never leaves the house with his big heeled boots, so I'm suprised anyone's been able to catch him less than 5'10" (most people out there think he's like 5'11").
Those same heels, possible lifts and cowboy boots also lead many to think he's 2"+ taller than Bruce Lee: e.g.
Click Here
But with similar footwear, they're actually pretty similar in height, within 1" or so:
Click Here
Click Here
TJ said on 23/Aug/07
Read again Anon. He was talking about meeting Chuck.
Read again Anon. He was talking about meeting Chuck.
Anonymous2 said on 22/Aug/07
DJ529, was your post a joke?! Bruce died in 1973. You must've been sizing yourself up with "the ghost of Bruce Lee" in the early 80's, lol. ;)
DJ529, was your post a joke?! Bruce died in 1973. You must've been sizing yourself up with "the ghost of Bruce Lee" in the early 80's, lol. ;)
DJ529 said on 18/Aug/07
Wow! These people who think he was 5'8 are stupid. I know for a fact that he admitted to 5-7.5. (But, that's probably in shoes). Chuck norris is 5'8 DEAD ON (and I'm just about 5'8). One of his biggest fans, I have actually met him 2 times, in the early 80's. Bruce Lee looks a about and inch-2inches shorter than Chuck, according to several pictures posted. There is nothing to argue here, Bruce Lee was mid-5'6.
Wow! These people who think he was 5'8 are stupid. I know for a fact that he admitted to 5-7.5. (But, that's probably in shoes). Chuck norris is 5'8 DEAD ON (and I'm just about 5'8). One of his biggest fans, I have actually met him 2 times, in the early 80's. Bruce Lee looks a about and inch-2inches shorter than Chuck, according to several pictures posted. There is nothing to argue here, Bruce Lee was mid-5'6.
Anonymous2 said on 11/Aug/07
The problem with the "who could be who" thing is, is that often nobody can sure-handedly do someone in 100% of the time. Even Muhammed Ali lost a few times, he fought Joe Frazier 3 times to really establish who was better and never really DID beat Frazier in their last bout in Manila. So the thing for Bruce is, in a street fight if Bruce was able to beat some top-end martial-artists like Samoan street-fighters or whoever only 60%, it'd still damage his "invincibility" rep if he took on these challenges and even lost just 1 match...
The problem with the "who could be who" thing is, is that often nobody can sure-handedly do someone in 100% of the time. Even Muhammed Ali lost a few times, he fought Joe Frazier 3 times to really establish who was better and never really DID beat Frazier in their last bout in Manila. So the thing for Bruce is, in a street fight if Bruce was able to beat some top-end martial-artists like Samoan street-fighters or whoever only 60%, it'd still damage his "invincibility" rep if he took on these challenges and even lost just 1 match...
zillionairepoet said on 7/Aug/07
Back to BL's height... I guess we'll have to accept his brother's Robert's comment. If Robert is 5-7 and he says his brother was one inch taller....
Lee was also able to access real situations. Consider when he met Vic Damone and his bodyguards in Damon'es Vegas hotel suite. The discussion came around to streetfighting vs. martial arts. The two big bodyguards and Damone were waying Yeah, a good Italian streetfighter could beat a martial artist.
So Lee said, Let's do this. "I'll go outside to the hallway. I'll come thru the door, take care of your first bodyguard standing in front of the door; and then I'll kick the cigarette out of the second guy's mouth, which represents a holstered gun. I'll do this within 6 seconds from entering. If I can do this, will you accept the validity of Chinese martial art?"
They said, yeah yeah, sure. So the two guys get in position, and Damone has a stopwatch. Lee goes outside and shuts the door.
A few seconds later, the door comes off its hinges and crashes into the first guy, knocking him down. Lee then kicks the shocked bodyguard's cigarette. Damone says, Holy S*****T!!!
DeMile has said, "Anyone who never knew Bruce can give a lot of opinions of his fighting ability. The same can't be said for those who knew him." As for the Hawaii / Samoan streetfighters during the 60s, Lee was welll known because of the TV show. If they wanted to challenge him, why didn't they?
There's a well documented story from Hong Kong during the 70s. A guy, mongolian wrestling, western boxing and kung fu. He challenged Lee in the papers. Finally, Lee agreed to meet. The fight lasted a couple of seconds, and the guy ended up with a caved-in face from one punch. He vanished from the scene and was said to be in Japan for reconstructive surgery; also, it's was said that Lee paid for it. It's very coincidental that here's a guy who's challenging Lee in the newspapers for several months; and then after the date of the fight, he vanishes. If he had beaten Lee he would have been in all the papers again. btw, such fights were illegal, so it was in someone's private yard.
Back to BL's height... I guess we'll have to accept his brother's Robert's comment. If Robert is 5-7 and he says his brother was one inch taller....
Lee was also able to access real situations. Consider when he met Vic Damone and his bodyguards in Damon'es Vegas hotel suite. The discussion came around to streetfighting vs. martial arts. The two big bodyguards and Damone were waying Yeah, a good Italian streetfighter could beat a martial artist.
So Lee said, Let's do this. "I'll go outside to the hallway. I'll come thru the door, take care of your first bodyguard standing in front of the door; and then I'll kick the cigarette out of the second guy's mouth, which represents a holstered gun. I'll do this within 6 seconds from entering. If I can do this, will you accept the validity of Chinese martial art?"
They said, yeah yeah, sure. So the two guys get in position, and Damone has a stopwatch. Lee goes outside and shuts the door.
A few seconds later, the door comes off its hinges and crashes into the first guy, knocking him down. Lee then kicks the shocked bodyguard's cigarette. Damone says, Holy S*****T!!!
DeMile has said, "Anyone who never knew Bruce can give a lot of opinions of his fighting ability. The same can't be said for those who knew him." As for the Hawaii / Samoan streetfighters during the 60s, Lee was welll known because of the TV show. If they wanted to challenge him, why didn't they?
There's a well documented story from Hong Kong during the 70s. A guy, mongolian wrestling, western boxing and kung fu. He challenged Lee in the papers. Finally, Lee agreed to meet. The fight lasted a couple of seconds, and the guy ended up with a caved-in face from one punch. He vanished from the scene and was said to be in Japan for reconstructive surgery; also, it's was said that Lee paid for it. It's very coincidental that here's a guy who's challenging Lee in the newspapers for several months; and then after the date of the fight, he vanishes. If he had beaten Lee he would have been in all the papers again. btw, such fights were illegal, so it was in someone's private yard.
JanJ said on 30/Jul/07
lee is 171cm, was 1 or 1.5 inches taller than the 5'6 bodybuilder in enter the dragon
lee is 171cm, was 1 or 1.5 inches taller than the 5'6 bodybuilder in enter the dragon
Pete said on 30/Jul/07
ppff..bruce lee was so overrated. he even was a student with some real grand masters in california. he was pretty fast...with his hands. he would never win a street fight against street fighters of hawaii or samoa back in the 60-70s and he knew it.
ppff..bruce lee was so overrated. he even was a student with some real grand masters in california. he was pretty fast...with his hands. he would never win a street fight against street fighters of hawaii or samoa back in the 60-70s and he knew it.
zillionairepoet said on 30/Jul/07
How tall is John Saxon? Lee is in several pictures standing next to him while they're both wearing flat shoes (Bruce in kung fu shoes, which are really flat). Saxon only looks 3-4 inches taller.
On the fighting Bruce. I'll have to go with James DeMile. He was undefeated Air Force heavyweight boxer 100 fights. He was a streetfighter. He has invited Joe Lewis to check out personally his trapping, which he says "few people understand trapping." Gene LaBell said, "Bruce was the best of his time." Sugar Ray Leonard said that he developed his jab from watching Lee's films, and that he was a fan.
DeMile : (paraphrasing: "Joe Lewis speaks of tournament karate as same as real fighting. Bruce would beat Lewis or anyone else for that matter in a real fight. When they sparred, it was like Ali against a Golden Gloves boxer, strictly no contest." When asked about the Ali quote, "Strictly Hollywood." ...
In the ring Ali would kill Bruce. In the street, Bruce would kill Ali. ... to this day Bruce is the best fighter I have ever seen, I am in awe of his skill. When I met him considered myself the toughest guy on the planet. Bruce tied me up so I couldn't do anything. I always tried to really nail him, but never could." Other of the big guy and street fighter students said "Bruce could beat us all at the same time." Not even an Ali can say that.
* In Hong Kong, during filming, Lee would put his hand on a butcher block and invite the cooks to bring their hatchets down. This speaks of supreme confidence/craziness
* when faced by the Triad, he just basically laffed in their faces. Ali, etc. would not do this.
* Lee had a razor sharp training device. Make one mistake and you cut up your hand. This speaks again of supreme confidence/craziness/not to mention accuracy and speed (also it was electrified). So anyone who says "I could have taken him," just has to replicate this device. I doubt if any fighter today will do this.
* His mental set was far higher than Ali, etc. As DeMile says, he trained for the real thing. I heard of a guy in Vietnam; he wasn't brought on charges, but he was on 'our side' ... he would take the viet cong prisoners outside. He would say, if you can beat me, you're free to go. Then they would face off, he would pluck out their eyes, and the rest of course was easy.
Lee could do that at will. Credible witnesses say that he could put his fingers thru a full coke can. He could pull up 80 times with one arm. Others may be stronger (lifting heavier weights) but few could move their bodies like him.
Check out James DeMile and see if he's full of ____. Dan Inosanto has also said, "Without naming names, Bruce sparred with all of the championship names, and they were like kids." without naming names that would include Joe Lewis, Chuck Norris, Mike Stone, the big three of that era.
I thought Lee was a good martial artist. But it was when I looked at the history that I realized he was the real thing. DeMIle says, "For Joe Lewis to say Bruce was not a fighter is ridiculous."
btw, Lewis once tried to crash heavyweight boxing (old Ring magazine), but he never became a contender. Bruce Thomas wrote a recent book with both Lewis and DeMile in it. Too bad he didn't include more of DeMile.
How tall is John Saxon? Lee is in several pictures standing next to him while they're both wearing flat shoes (Bruce in kung fu shoes, which are really flat). Saxon only looks 3-4 inches taller.
On the fighting Bruce. I'll have to go with James DeMile. He was undefeated Air Force heavyweight boxer 100 fights. He was a streetfighter. He has invited Joe Lewis to check out personally his trapping, which he says "few people understand trapping." Gene LaBell said, "Bruce was the best of his time." Sugar Ray Leonard said that he developed his jab from watching Lee's films, and that he was a fan.
DeMile : (paraphrasing: "Joe Lewis speaks of tournament karate as same as real fighting. Bruce would beat Lewis or anyone else for that matter in a real fight. When they sparred, it was like Ali against a Golden Gloves boxer, strictly no contest." When asked about the Ali quote, "Strictly Hollywood." ...
In the ring Ali would kill Bruce. In the street, Bruce would kill Ali. ... to this day Bruce is the best fighter I have ever seen, I am in awe of his skill. When I met him considered myself the toughest guy on the planet. Bruce tied me up so I couldn't do anything. I always tried to really nail him, but never could." Other of the big guy and street fighter students said "Bruce could beat us all at the same time." Not even an Ali can say that.
* In Hong Kong, during filming, Lee would put his hand on a butcher block and invite the cooks to bring their hatchets down. This speaks of supreme confidence/craziness
* when faced by the Triad, he just basically laffed in their faces. Ali, etc. would not do this.
* Lee had a razor sharp training device. Make one mistake and you cut up your hand. This speaks again of supreme confidence/craziness/not to mention accuracy and speed (also it was electrified). So anyone who says "I could have taken him," just has to replicate this device. I doubt if any fighter today will do this.
* His mental set was far higher than Ali, etc. As DeMile says, he trained for the real thing. I heard of a guy in Vietnam; he wasn't brought on charges, but he was on 'our side' ... he would take the viet cong prisoners outside. He would say, if you can beat me, you're free to go. Then they would face off, he would pluck out their eyes, and the rest of course was easy.
Lee could do that at will. Credible witnesses say that he could put his fingers thru a full coke can. He could pull up 80 times with one arm. Others may be stronger (lifting heavier weights) but few could move their bodies like him.
Check out James DeMile and see if he's full of ____. Dan Inosanto has also said, "Without naming names, Bruce sparred with all of the championship names, and they were like kids." without naming names that would include Joe Lewis, Chuck Norris, Mike Stone, the big three of that era.
I thought Lee was a good martial artist. But it was when I looked at the history that I realized he was the real thing. DeMIle says, "For Joe Lewis to say Bruce was not a fighter is ridiculous."
btw, Lewis once tried to crash heavyweight boxing (old Ring magazine), but he never became a contender. Bruce Thomas wrote a recent book with both Lewis and DeMile in it. Too bad he didn't include more of DeMile.
Dominic said on 28/Jul/07
Just to correct a few bodyfat misunderstandings a few posters have here. Your body requires at least 3-4% bodyfat to keep vital organs running. Any prolonged time at less than 3% and you will die.
Just to correct a few bodyfat misunderstandings a few posters have here. Your body requires at least 3-4% bodyfat to keep vital organs running. Any prolonged time at less than 3% and you will die.
Dunken said on 20/Jul/07
the thing with Bruce, despite the fact that i'm a huge, huge fan, is that he never fought at a competition level, which is why some doubt his abilities.
how would he fare in a ring/cage, with rules and regulations, against people his own size or bigger? who knows, but to think he couldn't carry himself in a street fight and beat up bigger people than him is naive. i have and i only have a fraction of his work ethic.
the thing with Bruce, despite the fact that i'm a huge, huge fan, is that he never fought at a competition level, which is why some doubt his abilities.
how would he fare in a ring/cage, with rules and regulations, against people his own size or bigger? who knows, but to think he couldn't carry himself in a street fight and beat up bigger people than him is naive. i have and i only have a fraction of his work ethic.
Anonymous2 said on 20/Jul/07
Is the training footage from this video series?
Click Here
"Fighter" is a broad term. I think you're thinking too black and white... if there's a scale 1-10 on what a good "fighter" is where 10 is a professional who does it for a living, say a UFC heavyweight, then Bruce might be a 6, 7, 8 or 9. The way you put things, one is either a 10 or a 0 in terms of being a fighter.
The physical feat claims listed below are definitely not all true. However there IS much truth in them, like his strength in being able to hold out a 70lb+ dumbell laterally, accounted by not one but THREE different people including Joe Lewis. I like Joe Lewis, he's level-headed and is more of a thinker than a fighter, and if you read the interview with him below, he has this no BS honest attitude about martial-arts and Bruce, so I'd take his word over most below.
I've heard this debate happen all over the place, and the general pattern goes, the "believers" feel they need to go overboard and exaggerate how good Bruce Lee was to make their point and convince the "disbelievers" that Bruce was as good as advertised, and to satisfy their obsessive needs to deify (good spellin, lol) their idol. And vice versa, the disbelievers go overboard and discredit almost everything Bruce ever was, and has done, to the point of saying he's weak and can't fight, in order to hammer in THEIR point to convince the believers they're just drooling fanboys, exaggerating to counteract the believers' exaggerations, and it quickly ends up being a big downwards spiral... Like I said before, the truth meets somewhere in the middle.
Thx for this friendly debate btw, I've found myself defending Bruce on both sides of this coin before including the disbelieving side. And btw, he may not be a "10" as a fighter, but many do consider him a 10 as a "Martial-Artist" (whatever that means... that'll prolly open up another can of worms, lol).
Peace out.
Is the training footage from this video series?
Click Here
"Fighter" is a broad term. I think you're thinking too black and white... if there's a scale 1-10 on what a good "fighter" is where 10 is a professional who does it for a living, say a UFC heavyweight, then Bruce might be a 6, 7, 8 or 9. The way you put things, one is either a 10 or a 0 in terms of being a fighter.
The physical feat claims listed below are definitely not all true. However there IS much truth in them, like his strength in being able to hold out a 70lb+ dumbell laterally, accounted by not one but THREE different people including Joe Lewis. I like Joe Lewis, he's level-headed and is more of a thinker than a fighter, and if you read the interview with him below, he has this no BS honest attitude about martial-arts and Bruce, so I'd take his word over most below.
I've heard this debate happen all over the place, and the general pattern goes, the "believers" feel they need to go overboard and exaggerate how good Bruce Lee was to make their point and convince the "disbelievers" that Bruce was as good as advertised, and to satisfy their obsessive needs to deify (good spellin, lol) their idol. And vice versa, the disbelievers go overboard and discredit almost everything Bruce ever was, and has done, to the point of saying he's weak and can't fight, in order to hammer in THEIR point to convince the believers they're just drooling fanboys, exaggerating to counteract the believers' exaggerations, and it quickly ends up being a big downwards spiral... Like I said before, the truth meets somewhere in the middle.
Thx for this friendly debate btw, I've found myself defending Bruce on both sides of this coin before including the disbelieving side. And btw, he may not be a "10" as a fighter, but many do consider him a 10 as a "Martial-Artist" (whatever that means... that'll prolly open up another can of worms, lol).
Peace out.
Melvin said on 20/Jul/07
I don't believe most of these claims. I used to when I was a teenager until I saw the training videos which should be online somewhere by now. Some of those martial artists who praised him were ok for their time but nothing by today's standards so all that praise came easy. Bruce mostly sparred with people weaker than him. He did not spar with Gene LeBell, he took lessons from him. Gene was a grappler and everyone rated him as one of the best grapplers out there. Coburn's bag was likely on a weak hook so what's gonna happen? The most impressive thing about Bruce was his speed and his ideas but he was an actor first all his life and a martial artist second. He had more cha cha dancing accolades than he qualifications in martial arts! Linda Lee said in his bio that Bruce was moving away from martial artis moves. He had become an avid still life photographer and wanted to make a romance movie. Joe Lewis trained with Bruce for hundreds of hours and said "Bruce was not a fighter. He was an actor and a teacher. He was a great teacher." That's all we need to know.
I don't believe most of these claims. I used to when I was a teenager until I saw the training videos which should be online somewhere by now. Some of those martial artists who praised him were ok for their time but nothing by today's standards so all that praise came easy. Bruce mostly sparred with people weaker than him. He did not spar with Gene LeBell, he took lessons from him. Gene was a grappler and everyone rated him as one of the best grapplers out there. Coburn's bag was likely on a weak hook so what's gonna happen? The most impressive thing about Bruce was his speed and his ideas but he was an actor first all his life and a martial artist second. He had more cha cha dancing accolades than he qualifications in martial arts! Linda Lee said in his bio that Bruce was moving away from martial artis moves. He had become an avid still life photographer and wanted to make a romance movie. Joe Lewis trained with Bruce for hundreds of hours and said "Bruce was not a fighter. He was an actor and a teacher. He was a great teacher." That's all we need to know.
Melvin said on 19/Jul/07
lol. That should be deified. There's no way he could curl a 110lb dumbbell. I've seen all his training videos and home movies. He wasn't even half of what he was made out to be. He had a 300 pound punchbag in his garden that was four foot wide. His followers said he could kick it off the chain. Every home movie I saw of him he was taking these long 20 foot run ups to kick the bag and kept missing. He was missing a four foot wide bag! Crazy. As a theorist he was very good. As an actor he had great charisma. As a real fighter Bruce Lee wouldn't have stood a chance against the many well known fighters.
lol. That should be deified. There's no way he could curl a 110lb dumbbell. I've seen all his training videos and home movies. He wasn't even half of what he was made out to be. He had a 300 pound punchbag in his garden that was four foot wide. His followers said he could kick it off the chain. Every home movie I saw of him he was taking these long 20 foot run ups to kick the bag and kept missing. He was missing a four foot wide bag! Crazy. As a theorist he was very good. As an actor he had great charisma. As a real fighter Bruce Lee wouldn't have stood a chance against the many well known fighters.
Anonymous2 said on 18/Jul/07
Melvin, I agree that Bruce has been somewhat dietized by many drooling fanboys, but many of his speed and strength feats WERE quite phenomenal for a man his size. He curled dumbells around 110lbs like yourself, and did shoulder-raises with dumbells which many 200lb body-builders can't do (and I believe this came from the words of Joe Lewis or Chuck Norris). It was also either Lewis or Norris who also said Bruce hit as hard as a 200-pounder. And he did train and spar with BOTH Norris, Lewis, and "Judo" Gene Lebell too among a long list of many experienced fighters.
You can tear a muscle doing a 10lb exercise if you do hundreds of reps on extreme conditions. Bruce was often known to do crazy-ass stuff like leg-raises with "only shoulders" touching the bench, etc.. You don't even need weights to tear a muscle doing stuff like that!
"Weak" would be the poorest word to describe Bruce Lee. He's stronger than the average athletic 170lb man imho. Pound-for-pound, he could be one of the strongest ever... however, he would NOT last a round against a UFC heavyweight like Tito Ortiz or Chuck Liddell. He could probably take most people under 200lbs imho, unless they nearly match his skill level and outweigh him 50lbs or more.
What I appreciate most about him was how ahead of his time he was. Many consider him the "father of mixed-martial-arts", and I think Tito Ortiz was quoted saying he adopted many of Bruce's fighting philosophies.
Melvin, I agree that Bruce has been somewhat dietized by many drooling fanboys, but many of his speed and strength feats WERE quite phenomenal for a man his size. He curled dumbells around 110lbs like yourself, and did shoulder-raises with dumbells which many 200lb body-builders can't do (and I believe this came from the words of Joe Lewis or Chuck Norris). It was also either Lewis or Norris who also said Bruce hit as hard as a 200-pounder. And he did train and spar with BOTH Norris, Lewis, and "Judo" Gene Lebell too among a long list of many experienced fighters.
You can tear a muscle doing a 10lb exercise if you do hundreds of reps on extreme conditions. Bruce was often known to do crazy-ass stuff like leg-raises with "only shoulders" touching the bench, etc.. You don't even need weights to tear a muscle doing stuff like that!
"Weak" would be the poorest word to describe Bruce Lee. He's stronger than the average athletic 170lb man imho. Pound-for-pound, he could be one of the strongest ever... however, he would NOT last a round against a UFC heavyweight like Tito Ortiz or Chuck Liddell. He could probably take most people under 200lbs imho, unless they nearly match his skill level and outweigh him 50lbs or more.
What I appreciate most about him was how ahead of his time he was. Many consider him the "father of mixed-martial-arts", and I think Tito Ortiz was quoted saying he adopted many of Bruce's fighting philosophies.
Jason said on 17/Jul/07
Dunken says on 16/Jul/07
''i drink plenty of water. i'm only ripped, i don't have the "bone dry", almost dead look.
for comparision, i resemble the mid-72 to late-72 Bruce body (while he was shooting Game of Death):
Click Here
the unhealthy, mega-ripped, muscles-painted in can been seen best in the opening sequence of Enter the Dragon (when Bruce fights Sammo).''
That's more like 7%. Calipers are inaccurate (often off by up to 4% either way) for getting a good bodyfat reading.
Dunken says on 16/Jul/07
''i drink plenty of water. i'm only ripped, i don't have the "bone dry", almost dead look.
for comparision, i resemble the mid-72 to late-72 Bruce body (while he was shooting Game of Death):
Click Here
the unhealthy, mega-ripped, muscles-painted in can been seen best in the opening sequence of Enter the Dragon (when Bruce fights Sammo).''
That's more like 7%. Calipers are inaccurate (often off by up to 4% either way) for getting a good bodyfat reading.
Melvin said on 17/Jul/07
That's good but what I'm saying is Bruce was fast and knowledgeable but he was pretty weak compared to the stories that went around after his death. He wouldn't spar or fight with anyone with good experience. Joe Lewis was once going to beat the mother out of Bruce on his doorstep once. I saw training footage of Bruce doing some sparring with this Italian American guy from San Francisco. That guy was a west coast karate champ. Was beating Bruce around like a daddy beats a bad son.
That's good but what I'm saying is Bruce was fast and knowledgeable but he was pretty weak compared to the stories that went around after his death. He wouldn't spar or fight with anyone with good experience. Joe Lewis was once going to beat the mother out of Bruce on his doorstep once. I saw training footage of Bruce doing some sparring with this Italian American guy from San Francisco. That guy was a west coast karate champ. Was beating Bruce around like a daddy beats a bad son.
Dunken said on 17/Jul/07
Melvin: i'm pretty strong for my size. in BJJ classes, i can hang and often outmuscle guys 2 weightclasses above mine. there's also some heavyweights who get tooled by welterweights in classes and get submited in no time.
Melvin: i'm pretty strong for my size. in BJJ classes, i can hang and often outmuscle guys 2 weightclasses above mine. there's also some heavyweights who get tooled by welterweights in classes and get submited in no time.
Melvin said on 17/Jul/07
What I hate most if the aura of invincibility and stories of immense strength some of fans and those who make money out of his name have created. Bruce Lee was strong for a very light guy and fast too but he admitted himself he would not be able to beat Muhammed Ali. He also said in his notes that you can read in the Tao of Jeet Kune Do that a good boxer can beat a good martial artist. Lee wasn't very strong either. He tore his nerves doing a 125lb good morning exercise. That's serious light weight. I was deadlifting 750lbs at 19 years old and could do one arm preacher curls with 110lb dumbbells. Those finger push ups I could do at 16. I found out that they were easy to do if you didn't weigh much. The man was was a great philosopher and had a larger than life personality but strong he was not.
What I hate most if the aura of invincibility and stories of immense strength some of fans and those who make money out of his name have created. Bruce Lee was strong for a very light guy and fast too but he admitted himself he would not be able to beat Muhammed Ali. He also said in his notes that you can read in the Tao of Jeet Kune Do that a good boxer can beat a good martial artist. Lee wasn't very strong either. He tore his nerves doing a 125lb good morning exercise. That's serious light weight. I was deadlifting 750lbs at 19 years old and could do one arm preacher curls with 110lb dumbbells. Those finger push ups I could do at 16. I found out that they were easy to do if you didn't weigh much. The man was was a great philosopher and had a larger than life personality but strong he was not.
glenn said on 17/Jul/07
i had microscopic tears in my arm muscles from curling too much at 14,and that was incredibly painful.and pulled or tore a stomach muscle 10 months ago.was in pain for 8 months.whenever i pull my wrist,which happen yearly from not lifting weights,but moving heavy objects,im in pain for 3 or 4 months.never put it in a brace like a dick.im in pain from that now as i write this.
i had microscopic tears in my arm muscles from curling too much at 14,and that was incredibly painful.and pulled or tore a stomach muscle 10 months ago.was in pain for 8 months.whenever i pull my wrist,which happen yearly from not lifting weights,but moving heavy objects,im in pain for 3 or 4 months.never put it in a brace like a dick.im in pain from that now as i write this.
Brad said on 17/Jul/07
Those muscles in "Enter The Dragon" were so tight that if he did a move too fast and in a contorted manner, Warner Bros. would eat millions in dead time breaking down a big budget film for 2 months while Bruce healed. I read he was in unbelievable pain for weeks & weeks after he ripped his muscles....just stuck in a bed reading books and suffering a few years before. Ouch!
Those muscles in "Enter The Dragon" were so tight that if he did a move too fast and in a contorted manner, Warner Bros. would eat millions in dead time breaking down a big budget film for 2 months while Bruce healed. I read he was in unbelievable pain for weeks & weeks after he ripped his muscles....just stuck in a bed reading books and suffering a few years before. Ouch!
Viper said on 16/Jul/07
I figured at 1 percent you would be dead.
I figured at 1 percent you would be dead.
Dunken said on 16/Jul/07
i drink plenty of water. i'm only ripped, i don't have the "bone dry", almost dead look.
for comparision, i resemble the mid-72 to late-72 Bruce body (while he was shooting Game of Death):
Click Here
the unhealthy, mega-ripped, muscles-painted in can been seen best in the opening sequence of Enter the Dragon (when Bruce fights Sammo).
i drink plenty of water. i'm only ripped, i don't have the "bone dry", almost dead look.
for comparision, i resemble the mid-72 to late-72 Bruce body (while he was shooting Game of Death):
Click Here
the unhealthy, mega-ripped, muscles-painted in can been seen best in the opening sequence of Enter the Dragon (when Bruce fights Sammo).
Melvin said on 16/Jul/07
Less than 1% body fat is very dangerous level to stay at. Your spinal column needs water and fats to maintain healthy posture and so do your glands for healthy functioning.
There was a bodybuilder called Mohammed Benaziza who didn't drink liquid for 2 weeks and took diuretics to get the bone dry steel hard look. His stomach cramped up so hard he had to leave the competition stage to vomit. His fellow competitor Porter Cotrell said it was 'projectile vomit up to 5 meters'. Benaziza died after winning the competition. The coroner said his liver was shriveled up to half size. Dangerous being that ripped and dehydrated.
Less than 1% body fat is very dangerous level to stay at. Your spinal column needs water and fats to maintain healthy posture and so do your glands for healthy functioning.
There was a bodybuilder called Mohammed Benaziza who didn't drink liquid for 2 weeks and took diuretics to get the bone dry steel hard look. His stomach cramped up so hard he had to leave the competition stage to vomit. His fellow competitor Porter Cotrell said it was 'projectile vomit up to 5 meters'. Benaziza died after winning the competition. The coroner said his liver was shriveled up to half size. Dangerous being that ripped and dehydrated.
Dunken said on 16/Jul/07
he removed his sweat glandules at some point (spelling might wrong). i achieved that ripped look and i still sweat like any ther human. muscles ripping sounds like bad nutrition, lack of liquid ingestion.
i'm around the size Melvin described of Bruce's death with less than 1% body fat and i'm one of the healthier people i know. nowadays he could've achieved that look without virtually killing himself in the process.
he removed his sweat glandules at some point (spelling might wrong). i achieved that ripped look and i still sweat like any ther human. muscles ripping sounds like bad nutrition, lack of liquid ingestion.
i'm around the size Melvin described of Bruce's death with less than 1% body fat and i'm one of the healthier people i know. nowadays he could've achieved that look without virtually killing himself in the process.
Brad said on 15/Jul/07
The guy ripped his muscles numerous times. He said it was of the greatest concern that he didn't tear his muscles because it took forever to heal. His skin looked almost painted on. The guy was around zero body fat. Lean lean lean. He lost a lot of $ being in a bed for months around '71. The guy had to have sweat made from spray bottles in his films. The guy never sweat. That's a bad sign.
The guy ripped his muscles numerous times. He said it was of the greatest concern that he didn't tear his muscles because it took forever to heal. His skin looked almost painted on. The guy was around zero body fat. Lean lean lean. He lost a lot of $ being in a bed for months around '71. The guy had to have sweat made from spray bottles in his films. The guy never sweat. That's a bad sign.
Melvin said on 14/Jul/07
Bruce Lee was measured 5ft 8 and 150 pounds for his driving license in 1964. He was very healthy at the time. On the day of his death the coroner measured him 5ft 6 and 126 pounds. The coroner mentioned his body was completely dehydrated. The story goes Lee was dehydrating himself for three years to get that super ripped look. He was also smoking pot and taking diuretics to get that bone dry look. Dehydrated bodies lose height. So peak 5ft 8, lowest 5ft 6. Average 5ft 7.
Bruce Lee was measured 5ft 8 and 150 pounds for his driving license in 1964. He was very healthy at the time. On the day of his death the coroner measured him 5ft 6 and 126 pounds. The coroner mentioned his body was completely dehydrated. The story goes Lee was dehydrating himself for three years to get that super ripped look. He was also smoking pot and taking diuretics to get that bone dry look. Dehydrated bodies lose height. So peak 5ft 8, lowest 5ft 6. Average 5ft 7.
glenn said on 13/Jul/07
the thing is chuck claims 5-10.is it any possibilty chuck was 5-9 peak?
the thing is chuck claims 5-10.is it any possibilty chuck was 5-9 peak?
Brad said on 12/Jul/07
Chuck is 5' 8". Subtract the 1.5" in the photo. May add 1/2" more with the downslope from the stairs. I saw Lee's penny trick in person, it was like a wizard. Jabbar wore nothing on his feet in the last film (If I remember). Somebody should ask Jabbar at a sports autograph show. I don't think he'd lie. Norris might to cover his not well known lack of height to the general public. Most people I ask say "6'" for Chuck.
Chuck is 5' 8". Subtract the 1.5" in the photo. May add 1/2" more with the downslope from the stairs. I saw Lee's penny trick in person, it was like a wizard. Jabbar wore nothing on his feet in the last film (If I remember). Somebody should ask Jabbar at a sports autograph show. I don't think he'd lie. Norris might to cover his not well known lack of height to the general public. Most people I ask say "6'" for Chuck.
Anonymous2 said on 12/Jul/07
He's too close in height to Chuck Norris to be only 5'6.5". That would give them a 2" difference assuming Chuck's at 5'8.5" (he was probably 5'9" in his prime). Most pics of them seen together, they differ by 1", 1.5" at most. It's more accurate to measure people with others closer to their own height, not Kareem Abdul Jabaar, lol!
See this:
Click Here
He's too close in height to Chuck Norris to be only 5'6.5". That would give them a 2" difference assuming Chuck's at 5'8.5" (he was probably 5'9" in his prime). Most pics of them seen together, they differ by 1", 1.5" at most. It's more accurate to measure people with others closer to their own height, not Kareem Abdul Jabaar, lol!
See this:
Click Here
zillionairepoet said on 6/Jul/07
I think 5'7" or a little less is more accurate ... this from photos with Bruce in flat shoes (fighting scenes). Also, check out his demo on Hong Kong TV where he's bare-footed. If he was around 125 - 130 pounds for ETD, 5-6 5-7 would be right. I met a documentary filmmaker in Hong Kong; he knew several of the old Bruce Lee stuntmen. He asked about his height, and they said around 5-6 1/2. Btw, he also said they were in awe of him. Once trick he did :
he would place his fist on the ground with thumb up. Straight-leged he bent down and put his thumb in his mouth. They said they had never seen anyone do that.
I think 5'7" or a little less is more accurate ... this from photos with Bruce in flat shoes (fighting scenes). Also, check out his demo on Hong Kong TV where he's bare-footed. If he was around 125 - 130 pounds for ETD, 5-6 5-7 would be right. I met a documentary filmmaker in Hong Kong; he knew several of the old Bruce Lee stuntmen. He asked about his height, and they said around 5-6 1/2. Btw, he also said they were in awe of him. Once trick he did :
he would place his fist on the ground with thumb up. Straight-leged he bent down and put his thumb in his mouth. They said they had never seen anyone do that.
Brad said on 30/Jun/07
Robert Lee is just trying to make his brother appear bigger. 5' 8" is LAUGHABLE for Bruce Lee. I'll go by the wife. I know what I saw: he wasn't 5' 8" plus Cuban heeled boots coming in at 5' 10.5". Jabbar is a legit 7' 2". I was 6' 8" in boots next to him in '80 and I was looking up big time.
Robert Lee is just trying to make his brother appear bigger. 5' 8" is LAUGHABLE for Bruce Lee. I'll go by the wife. I know what I saw: he wasn't 5' 8" plus Cuban heeled boots coming in at 5' 10.5". Jabbar is a legit 7' 2". I was 6' 8" in boots next to him in '80 and I was looking up big time.
Anonymous2 said on 27/Jun/07
Hey Arjun, don't forget Bruce is standing with a wider open-stance which usually lowers one's height by 0.5"-1":
Click Here
Brad, you just go by any quote that goes your way and supports your height claims. How about Robert Lee's quote above saying Bruce was 5'8"? You're probably gonna believe the next 5-year-old kid who saw Bruce Lee in his dreams at 5'5" lol!
Hey Arjun, don't forget Bruce is standing with a wider open-stance which usually lowers one's height by 0.5"-1":
Click Here
Brad, you just go by any quote that goes your way and supports your height claims. How about Robert Lee's quote above saying Bruce was 5'8"? You're probably gonna believe the next 5-year-old kid who saw Bruce Lee in his dreams at 5'5" lol!
Arjun said on 26/Jun/07
I scaled that Bruce-Kareem-Tien pic. If Kareem is 7'2", Bruce comes out to 5'7" exactly. Bruce is 78% of Kareem's height. If, however, Kareem was only 7'1 3/8" as some have claimed, Bruce comes out to only 5'6.5" .....
And Tien is about 5% taller than Bruce, i.e. betweeen 3.25 - 3.5 inches. But that's in his shoes, so if he's 5'10.5" in shoes, Bruce still comes out to 5'7" easy.
I scaled that Bruce-Kareem-Tien pic. If Kareem is 7'2", Bruce comes out to 5'7" exactly. Bruce is 78% of Kareem's height. If, however, Kareem was only 7'1 3/8" as some have claimed, Bruce comes out to only 5'6.5" .....
And Tien is about 5% taller than Bruce, i.e. betweeen 3.25 - 3.5 inches. But that's in his shoes, so if he's 5'10.5" in shoes, Bruce still comes out to 5'7" easy.
Brad said on 22/Jun/07
Go by the wife's quote.
Go by the wife's quote.
Anonymous2 said on 8/Jun/07
I'm still not convinced a 10-year-old kid can accurately guage height nor even pay attention to footwear and clothing in general. 5'7" isn't that much taller than your 5'5" either. And you said he walked right by you, meaning he was in motion and we all know from this site you can't accurately judge height on people walking...
I'm still not convinced a 10-year-old kid can accurately guage height nor even pay attention to footwear and clothing in general. 5'7" isn't that much taller than your 5'5" either. And you said he walked right by you, meaning he was in motion and we all know from this site you can't accurately judge height on people walking...
Brad said on 1/Jun/07
If she said 5' 6" then he's 5' 6". He was only a tad taller than I (5' 5") in Cuban heels walking right by me in '67. Subtract those Beatle boots. He was one surprisingly small guy to all us kids.
If she said 5' 6" then he's 5' 6". He was only a tad taller than I (5' 5") in Cuban heels walking right by me in '67. Subtract those Beatle boots. He was one surprisingly small guy to all us kids.
Robert.R said on 23/May/07
Perhaps you are right Anonymous2. It makes no sense her saying he is 5'6" if she is 5'7" and he is clearly taller than her.
Perhaps you are right Anonymous2. It makes no sense her saying he is 5'6" if she is 5'7" and he is clearly taller than her.
Anonymous2 said on 15/May/07
It's all good Robert. Just wondering if you've ever thought there may perhaps have been a typo in that article? Maybe the "8" partially got erased and became a "6"? Or the writer just totally messed it up? Wouldn't his wife wanna updgrade, not downgrade his height, assuming he was say around 5'7"? The only living person who'd know for sure is Linda Lee herself. Anyone who ever runs into Linda should guage her height then ask her how tall Bruce was ...
It's all good Robert. Just wondering if you've ever thought there may perhaps have been a typo in that article? Maybe the "8" partially got erased and became a "6"? Or the writer just totally messed it up? Wouldn't his wife wanna updgrade, not downgrade his height, assuming he was say around 5'7"? The only living person who'd know for sure is Linda Lee herself. Anyone who ever runs into Linda should guage her height then ask her how tall Bruce was ...
Brad said on 14/May/07
Linda's right. He wore those Cuban heel boots on "The Green Hornet" 100% of the time. He had to, Van Williams was much taller. I met the late actress who played the secretary on the show at a Ray Courts celebrity show where a lot of the people who worked at Fox on Batman & The Green Hornet came, she & Bruce were of the same height (both in heels) and she was about 5' 6" tops. I'm trying to judge a photo of me and "Enter The Dragon's" Ahna Capri and a Capri-Lee photo. Gotta find one.
Linda's right. He wore those Cuban heel boots on "The Green Hornet" 100% of the time. He had to, Van Williams was much taller. I met the late actress who played the secretary on the show at a Ray Courts celebrity show where a lot of the people who worked at Fox on Batman & The Green Hornet came, she & Bruce were of the same height (both in heels) and she was about 5' 6" tops. I'm trying to judge a photo of me and "Enter The Dragon's" Ahna Capri and a Capri-Lee photo. Gotta find one.
Robert.R said on 14/May/07
The truth is Anonymous2 I just don't know, never having met him. I agree with what you say though, he does look the same height if not taller than Linda in the pictures with her and she is supposed to be 5'7" yet it was her who allegedly stated in an article that he was only 5'6" and concious about his height, so I am a little confused.
The truth is Anonymous2 I just don't know, never having met him. I agree with what you say though, he does look the same height if not taller than Linda in the pictures with her and she is supposed to be 5'7" yet it was her who allegedly stated in an article that he was only 5'6" and concious about his height, so I am a little confused.
Anonymous2 said on 14/May/07
Haha you're funny Robert, if you really think Bruce is 5'6" then just say so, no need getting schizophrenic accepting 5'7" one day then going back to your 5'6" ways, lol. :)
Well, you said so yourself that Linda Lee was 5'7", so how come 5'6" Bruce is equal or taller than her in so many pics?
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
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In the first pic from a Hong-Kong talk-show, Bruce was doing a kung-fu demo so was most likely wearing kung-fu slippers or trainers and not cuban heels, yet standing straight he'd end up looking the same height as Linda.
Haha you're funny Robert, if you really think Bruce is 5'6" then just say so, no need getting schizophrenic accepting 5'7" one day then going back to your 5'6" ways, lol. :)
Well, you said so yourself that Linda Lee was 5'7", so how come 5'6" Bruce is equal or taller than her in so many pics?
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
In the first pic from a Hong-Kong talk-show, Bruce was doing a kung-fu demo so was most likely wearing kung-fu slippers or trainers and not cuban heels, yet standing straight he'd end up looking the same height as Linda.
Robert.R said on 12/May/07
I did not realise he wore huge cuban boots on The Green Hornet Brad. In that case you could well be right.
I did not realise he wore huge cuban boots on The Green Hornet Brad. In that case you could well be right.
Brad said on 12/May/07
Ridiculous 5' 6" was reality. Bruce at 5' 8" is hilarious. Wore huge Cuban boots on The Green Hornet...and in personal appearances. Didn't eliminate his Chinese talk. Warner Bros. first opt out on him was this fact for "Kung Fu". He said something like "If they want a Chinese person, they get one, I guess I'm too Chinese". Much respect for that.
Ridiculous 5' 6" was reality. Bruce at 5' 8" is hilarious. Wore huge Cuban boots on The Green Hornet...and in personal appearances. Didn't eliminate his Chinese talk. Warner Bros. first opt out on him was this fact for "Kung Fu". He said something like "If they want a Chinese person, they get one, I guess I'm too Chinese". Much respect for that.
Robert.R said on 9/May/07
I would go along with 5'8" with morning shoe height Anonymous2, I just cannot accept that he was ever 5'8" barefoot even it the morning. I think he may have been 5'7" barefoot in the morning, perhaps dropping down to 5'61/2" at night.
I would go along with 5'8" with morning shoe height Anonymous2, I just cannot accept that he was ever 5'8" barefoot even it the morning. I think he may have been 5'7" barefoot in the morning, perhaps dropping down to 5'61/2" at night.
Anonymous2 said on 6/May/07
But I totally agree with you and Editor Rob, Franco - Bruce was around 171cm. He could get away 5'8" with shoes. He might have been only 5'7" or 5'8" with morning or shoe height, but he's somewhere in there. But not anything ridiculous like 5'6".
But I totally agree with you and Editor Rob, Franco - Bruce was around 171cm. He could get away 5'8" with shoes. He might have been only 5'7" or 5'8" with morning or shoe height, but he's somewhere in there. But not anything ridiculous like 5'6".
Anonymous2 said on 6/May/07
The point is Brad tends 2 downgrade those who are rich, successful, with hot wives.
The point is Brad tends 2 downgrade those who are rich, successful, with hot wives.
Franco said on 30/Apr/07
wtf does SLY got to do with BRUTE LEE??
talk about SLY in his thread.....i mean come on, this is a mess.
and i agree Bruce is 171cm
wtf does SLY got to do with BRUTE LEE??
talk about SLY in his thread.....i mean come on, this is a mess.
and i agree Bruce is 171cm
Brad said on 17/Apr/07
If you think Sly is only getting 2" in that shot straining to kiss her, yer dreaming. She's slouching and he's stretching everything he has. I wonder if he (I doubt it) ever gets a divorce that it will top Jordan & Neil Diamond in the figure. 100+ million easy.
If you think Sly is only getting 2" in that shot straining to kiss her, yer dreaming. She's slouching and he's stretching everything he has. I wonder if he (I doubt it) ever gets a divorce that it will top Jordan & Neil Diamond in the figure. 100+ million easy.
Anonymous2 said on 11/Apr/07
Standing on tiptoes to equal 6' Brigitte Nielsen. 5'10" flat-footed...
Other famous words to think about next time a short, rich famous person calls you late for dinner:
"Moral indignation is jealousy with a halo."
- H. G. Wells (1866-1946)
"Don't be so humble - you are not that great."
- Golda Meir (1898-1978) to a visiting diplomat
Standing on tiptoes to equal 6' Brigitte Nielsen. 5'10" flat-footed...
Other famous words to think about next time a short, rich famous person calls you late for dinner:
"Moral indignation is jealousy with a halo."
- H. G. Wells (1866-1946)
"Don't be so humble - you are not that great."
- Golda Meir (1898-1978) to a visiting diplomat
Brad said on 28/Mar/07
Standing on his tip toes, stretching his body with his ex slouched, he sure does look 5' 10". In the words of Cousin Kackle in the Addams cellar: heeheeheehee.
Standing on his tip toes, stretching his body with his ex slouched, he sure does look 5' 10". In the words of Cousin Kackle in the Addams cellar: heeheeheehee.
glenn said on 28/Mar/07
and sly also looks 5-10 barefoot next to bridget neilson.oops forgot about that.
and sly also looks 5-10 barefoot next to bridget neilson.oops forgot about that.
Anonymous2 said on 27/Mar/07
I hear ya on people becoming big-headed after fame and fortune, even those who were total flukes. But on a lot of the interviews I've seen with Sly, he does sound pretty down-to-earth and humble tho, even the very early ones when he just started out like the one on Dini Petty after Rocky's success. He seemed to be genuinely gracious for what he has and gives respects for those who truly should be acknowledged like Muhammed Ali. On one of his latest Rocky Balboa interviews I remember him saying something along the lines of "yah, we had a real boxing set in Vegas with a real boxer (Tarver), the only thing fake was ME!" But give the man props, people like Stallone and Bruce Lee didn't make it to where they were being stupid or weak-minded, they're some of the most intelligent, driven and talented people with heart out there no matter WHAT their height is!
I hear ya on people becoming big-headed after fame and fortune, even those who were total flukes. But on a lot of the interviews I've seen with Sly, he does sound pretty down-to-earth and humble tho, even the very early ones when he just started out like the one on Dini Petty after Rocky's success. He seemed to be genuinely gracious for what he has and gives respects for those who truly should be acknowledged like Muhammed Ali. On one of his latest Rocky Balboa interviews I remember him saying something along the lines of "yah, we had a real boxing set in Vegas with a real boxer (Tarver), the only thing fake was ME!" But give the man props, people like Stallone and Bruce Lee didn't make it to where they were being stupid or weak-minded, they're some of the most intelligent, driven and talented people with heart out there no matter WHAT their height is!
Brad said on 27/Mar/07
Sly has never appeared barefoot taller than his wife. My favorite Sly & wife photo was the one when she is cuddling her baby and Sly clearly 3" shorter than her with his eyes looking up at her.Vaj wrote "ooops, forgot my lifts" next to it. The only time he is taller than his wife is when he is in his $2,000 4" added shoes.He can't touch Travolta in 3 1/2" cowboy boots. Hogan isn't stupid, he stood next to him for a few hundred hours. Yer right about 5' 5" people and the calling late fer dinner anytime after fame, $, etc..
Sly has never appeared barefoot taller than his wife. My favorite Sly & wife photo was the one when she is cuddling her baby and Sly clearly 3" shorter than her with his eyes looking up at her.Vaj wrote "ooops, forgot my lifts" next to it. The only time he is taller than his wife is when he is in his $2,000 4" added shoes.He can't touch Travolta in 3 1/2" cowboy boots. Hogan isn't stupid, he stood next to him for a few hundred hours. Yer right about 5' 5" people and the calling late fer dinner anytime after fame, $, etc..
Anonymous2 said on 26/Mar/07
Hogan is like you Brad, he was like 6'6" and would have trouble deciphering height of anyone under 6' - 5'10" could have been 5'7" for all he knew. Even if you knew your own height at 10, I have doubts you were able to accurately guage others at that age. The difference between 5'6" and 5'7" isn't that great, most adults would have trouble decifphering those two heights today. And most people disagree with you that Sly can't appear taller than his 5'9" wife, there dozens of photos that show he can, barefoot and even when she's in 4" heels... and "the poor guy" Sly ain't all that poor when you really think about it is he? ;) Even IF he's really only 5'5", with a career, wealth, fame and wife like that, he can call late dinners for ANYONE he pleases!
Hogan is like you Brad, he was like 6'6" and would have trouble deciphering height of anyone under 6' - 5'10" could have been 5'7" for all he knew. Even if you knew your own height at 10, I have doubts you were able to accurately guage others at that age. The difference between 5'6" and 5'7" isn't that great, most adults would have trouble decifphering those two heights today. And most people disagree with you that Sly can't appear taller than his 5'9" wife, there dozens of photos that show he can, barefoot and even when she's in 4" heels... and "the poor guy" Sly ain't all that poor when you really think about it is he? ;) Even IF he's really only 5'5", with a career, wealth, fame and wife like that, he can call late dinners for ANYONE he pleases!
Brad said on 23/Mar/07
Frank2 worked at Fox a lot. I'm sure he saw Lee on the lot. People can call me anything but don't call me late for dinner. Saxon is 5' 9"....if he thinks Bruce is 1.5" shorter than him, he ought to recheck photos of them together in thin sole fighting footwear.
Frank2 worked at Fox a lot. I'm sure he saw Lee on the lot. People can call me anything but don't call me late for dinner. Saxon is 5' 9"....if he thinks Bruce is 1.5" shorter than him, he ought to recheck photos of them together in thin sole fighting footwear.
Brad said on 23/Mar/07
I always knew my height. We had a height thingy in our house.I was 5' 7.5" in '69, 6' 6" by '73. Stallone is 5' 8". Hulk Hogan in his autobiography says the same thing. Just look at him in his lifts/heels, the poor guy can't get to his 5' 9" wife's height in almost every photo except in monster boots. I'd even agree with 5' 8.5" which is real close to 5' 9", some downgrading (gaffaw). Frank2 where are U?
I always knew my height. We had a height thingy in our house.I was 5' 7.5" in '69, 6' 6" by '73. Stallone is 5' 8". Hulk Hogan in his autobiography says the same thing. Just look at him in his lifts/heels, the poor guy can't get to his 5' 9" wife's height in almost every photo except in monster boots. I'd even agree with 5' 8.5" which is real close to 5' 9", some downgrading (gaffaw). Frank2 where are U?
Robert.R said on 22/Mar/07
Keoini, I believe Linda Lee was 5'7".
Keoini, I believe Linda Lee was 5'7".
Robert.R said on 22/Mar/07
Actually Anonymous2 you could not be more wrong. I realise I am in the minority on this page, it seems the general opinion is that he is 5'7.5" and I have got to the stage whereby I want to see him as that height myself, although he does not look that height to me, I will compromise and go along with 5'7" because I have never met him and pictures can be deceiving. I recall reading an article by John Saxon where he described Bruce as being just over 5'7" so the truth is I am not sure, although I am beginning to think I underestimated his height at 5'6".
Actually Anonymous2 you could not be more wrong. I realise I am in the minority on this page, it seems the general opinion is that he is 5'7.5" and I have got to the stage whereby I want to see him as that height myself, although he does not look that height to me, I will compromise and go along with 5'7" because I have never met him and pictures can be deceiving. I recall reading an article by John Saxon where he described Bruce as being just over 5'7" so the truth is I am not sure, although I am beginning to think I underestimated his height at 5'6".
Anonymous2 said on 22/Mar/07
BUT - of all people PUHLEAZE don't take Brad as a height authority! First off, he met Bruce in person when he was only 10. How many ten year olds even know THEIR OWN height at that age for crying out loud?! Go ask a dozen 10-year olds today what their height is and I bet you 99.9% of them won't even have a clue! Even better, ask them how tall they think *SOMEBODY ELSE* is, or how tall they think YOU are and 100% of them won't even be in the ballpark! For crying out loud, grownups even have trouble estimating the heights of people standing right before their own eyes as this site has shown over and over again, so forget about some vague memory of a ten year old kid seeing Bruce Lee 40 years ago!! Brad is 6'5" today and STILL believes everyone is small! Guys at that height have trouble deciphering the height of anyone under 6'. Just take a look at the Stallone height page to see all the havoc and turmoil Brad's stirred up with his insistence in downgrading 5'9"+ Sly Stallone down to 5'8" and you'll see what I mean.
BUT - of all people PUHLEAZE don't take Brad as a height authority! First off, he met Bruce in person when he was only 10. How many ten year olds even know THEIR OWN height at that age for crying out loud?! Go ask a dozen 10-year olds today what their height is and I bet you 99.9% of them won't even have a clue! Even better, ask them how tall they think *SOMEBODY ELSE* is, or how tall they think YOU are and 100% of them won't even be in the ballpark! For crying out loud, grownups even have trouble estimating the heights of people standing right before their own eyes as this site has shown over and over again, so forget about some vague memory of a ten year old kid seeing Bruce Lee 40 years ago!! Brad is 6'5" today and STILL believes everyone is small! Guys at that height have trouble deciphering the height of anyone under 6'. Just take a look at the Stallone height page to see all the havoc and turmoil Brad's stirred up with his insistence in downgrading 5'9"+ Sly Stallone down to 5'8" and you'll see what I mean.
Anonymous2 said on 22/Mar/07
Geez Robert, you seem obsessed with that 5'6" height lol! I'm no longer gonna dispute you about Bruce's height, it's obvious that nothing will change your mind. It obviously brings you great happiness and joy to have belief in that height, so I'll just let you be, whatever floats your boat man!
Geez Robert, you seem obsessed with that 5'6" height lol! I'm no longer gonna dispute you about Bruce's height, it's obvious that nothing will change your mind. It obviously brings you great happiness and joy to have belief in that height, so I'll just let you be, whatever floats your boat man!
Keoini said on 22/Mar/07
It seems like y'all arguing about which source is right and wrong. I think looking like ppl whose height we know FOR SURE that are alive today and has once stood next to Bruce in LIVE video, not picture or movies, is the BEST way to estimate the range of Bruce's height. His wife Linda (who's still alive) appeared to be taller than him in high heels at a 70's or 80's Japanese karate Exhibition (Youtube video), any1 know how tall Linda is?
It seems like y'all arguing about which source is right and wrong. I think looking like ppl whose height we know FOR SURE that are alive today and has once stood next to Bruce in LIVE video, not picture or movies, is the BEST way to estimate the range of Bruce's height. His wife Linda (who's still alive) appeared to be taller than him in high heels at a 70's or 80's Japanese karate Exhibition (Youtube video), any1 know how tall Linda is?
Brad said on 21/Mar/07
Being 10 and 39 years ago is not the only thing. Meeting most of the cast of "Enter The Dragon" & Van & Wendy from "The Green Hornet" as well as Burt Ward & Adam West next to them, you get a better idea what Lee was standing next to. Even at 10 I was amazed how little he was. I never met Black Belt Jones. I grew up in Greenwich Ct..
Being 10 and 39 years ago is not the only thing. Meeting most of the cast of "Enter The Dragon" & Van & Wendy from "The Green Hornet" as well as Burt Ward & Adam West next to them, you get a better idea what Lee was standing next to. Even at 10 I was amazed how little he was. I never met Black Belt Jones. I grew up in Greenwich Ct..
Robert.R said on 21/Mar/07
Anonymous2 although I respect your opinion and all those who have claimed his height is taller than I thought, I have to be honest and in that photo you showed below featuring John Saxon and Bruce Lee, Lee only looks around 5'6" to me. I cannot say that categorically because other than how he looks, I have no other proof only the article where his wife stated he is 5'6" which is not in my possession, however, I am sure you could produce several articles contradicting this. The only real proof I can say which supports my theory is the fact that Brad agrees with me and he has actually had the privilage of meeting him.
Anonymous2 although I respect your opinion and all those who have claimed his height is taller than I thought, I have to be honest and in that photo you showed below featuring John Saxon and Bruce Lee, Lee only looks around 5'6" to me. I cannot say that categorically because other than how he looks, I have no other proof only the article where his wife stated he is 5'6" which is not in my possession, however, I am sure you could produce several articles contradicting this. The only real proof I can say which supports my theory is the fact that Brad agrees with me and he has actually had the privilage of meeting him.
Anonymous2 said on 20/Mar/07
John Saxon took photos of him and Bruce while filming ETD and wrote a book about it:
Click Here
John Saxon took photos of him and Bruce while filming ETD and wrote a book about it:
Click Here
glenn said on 20/Mar/07
know anybody who met black belt jones brad? you? now thats rare.jabbar is common now.though he doesnt pose.
know anybody who met black belt jones brad? you? now thats rare.jabbar is common now.though he doesnt pose.
J. said on 20/Mar/07
You're from Connecticut, Brad?
You're from Connecticut, Brad?
Scarlet said on 20/Mar/07
There is a training video of 5'9 Steve McQueen and Bruce Lee on youtube. Lee is 2 inches shorter.
There is a training video of 5'9 Steve McQueen and Bruce Lee on youtube. Lee is 2 inches shorter.
Brad said on 20/Mar/07
Saxon is 5' 9". He was taller than Bruce by 3" at least. All us kids on the YMCA day trip wanted Bruce to come up to Connecticut to do a demonstration. He told the guy in charge he was only in town for 24 hours. Van Williams fights The Shoreline Crips now, at least that's what he told me.
Saxon is 5' 9". He was taller than Bruce by 3" at least. All us kids on the YMCA day trip wanted Bruce to come up to Connecticut to do a demonstration. He told the guy in charge he was only in town for 24 hours. Van Williams fights The Shoreline Crips now, at least that's what he told me.
Robert.R said on 19/Mar/07
Fairplay Anonymous, in retrospect it was as silly comment to make, everyone is entitled to their opinions and I respect yours. I will go along with 5'7".
Fairplay Anonymous, in retrospect it was as silly comment to make, everyone is entitled to their opinions and I respect yours. I will go along with 5'7".
Anonymous2 said on 19/Mar/07
No disrespects Robert, but that's a silly comment to make. That's like me accusing everyone thinking like you of being a Bruce Lee hater for thinking he's only 5'6". You've said so yourself we're all entitlted to our own opinions, and many of us just happen to believe he's 5'7.5" / 5'8" based on solid objective evidence, including the Editor.
John Saxon height page:
Click Here
Click Here
Platform shoes are more like boots, were only worn at parties and going to movie sets. I seriously doubt he wore them in suit and tie (and if you believe so, you'd accuse Bruce of having poor fashion sense too). And of course, they could never be worn while Bruce does martial-arts, and most photos of him are from such shots.
To be quite honest, I now think Bruce is more 5'7" most of the time, 5'7.5" only in the morning. If I were blinded by being some drooling fan, I'd insist him to be 5'8" and 5'8.5" in the mornings. But I seriously doubt he was even a millimeter under 5'7".
No disrespects Robert, but that's a silly comment to make. That's like me accusing everyone thinking like you of being a Bruce Lee hater for thinking he's only 5'6". You've said so yourself we're all entitlted to our own opinions, and many of us just happen to believe he's 5'7.5" / 5'8" based on solid objective evidence, including the Editor.
John Saxon height page:
Click Here
Click Here
Platform shoes are more like boots, were only worn at parties and going to movie sets. I seriously doubt he wore them in suit and tie (and if you believe so, you'd accuse Bruce of having poor fashion sense too). And of course, they could never be worn while Bruce does martial-arts, and most photos of him are from such shots.
To be quite honest, I now think Bruce is more 5'7" most of the time, 5'7.5" only in the morning. If I were blinded by being some drooling fan, I'd insist him to be 5'8" and 5'8.5" in the mornings. But I seriously doubt he was even a millimeter under 5'7".
leonari said on 19/Mar/07
Robert.R: great comment! I agree 100 %. But shouldn't people appreciate his skills in martial arts even more if he was only 5'6"...because thats what he was...maybe 5'6.5" but almost 5'8" skinny and toned as he was he would have looked bigger on screen.
Robert.R: great comment! I agree 100 %. But shouldn't people appreciate his skills in martial arts even more if he was only 5'6"...because thats what he was...maybe 5'6.5" but almost 5'8" skinny and toned as he was he would have looked bigger on screen.
Brad said on 18/Mar/07
Saxon 5' 11"?!!! Even at 5' 10" which is too high (I've met Ahna Capri from the film, good to judge) 4" brings him to 5' 6".
Saxon 5' 11"?!!! Even at 5' 10" which is too high (I've met Ahna Capri from the film, good to judge) 4" brings him to 5' 6".
glenn said on 18/Mar/07
hard to imagine you were ever 5-5 brad.any man that met bruce lee has my respect.outside the sly page that is.i met norris and saxon and they were both 5-9.
hard to imagine you were ever 5-5 brad.any man that met bruce lee has my respect.outside the sly page that is.i met norris and saxon and they were both 5-9.
Robert.R said on 18/Mar/07
Annonymous2 To get back to your earlier comment, no I cannot remember the name of the publication where his wife said he was 5'6" as it is over twenty years since I saw it. Therefore no doubt you will come to the conclusion that it did not exist, which I can assure you it did. I have seen the measurements which the editor showed and I remember they stated his height as 5'8" which I think we can all agree is nonsense, if I remember correctly Bruce wrote them himself. My opinion is that the majority of people on here who believe him to be 5'8" or even 5'7.5" are letting their awe of him as a master of the martial arts, cloud their judgements on his real height.
Annonymous2 To get back to your earlier comment, no I cannot remember the name of the publication where his wife said he was 5'6" as it is over twenty years since I saw it. Therefore no doubt you will come to the conclusion that it did not exist, which I can assure you it did. I have seen the measurements which the editor showed and I remember they stated his height as 5'8" which I think we can all agree is nonsense, if I remember correctly Bruce wrote them himself. My opinion is that the majority of people on here who believe him to be 5'8" or even 5'7.5" are letting their awe of him as a master of the martial arts, cloud their judgements on his real height.
Robert.R said on 18/Mar/07
Brad is correct, in the seventies Bruce Lee wore platform shoes.
Brad is correct, in the seventies Bruce Lee wore platform shoes.
Anonymous2 said on 18/Mar/07
Dunken ur right, Bruce averaged around 140lbs, if he were only 5'6" he'd look pretty stocky, more like Jet Li proportions. And here's another photo showing that you're also correct that Bruce was a bit taller than Bolo:
Click Here
Brad, Bruce only had the big 70's heels when he dressed trendy, in that formal suit and tie photo with Williams, I'm sure he's just wearing regular 1" dress shoes and so is Williams. John Saxon lost a lot of height growing old, check out his height page on this site. He was a legit 5'11" in his prime. In the Norris pic at the airport, Chuck was wearing giant heels.
Dunken ur right, Bruce averaged around 140lbs, if he were only 5'6" he'd look pretty stocky, more like Jet Li proportions. And here's another photo showing that you're also correct that Bruce was a bit taller than Bolo:
Click Here
Brad, Bruce only had the big 70's heels when he dressed trendy, in that formal suit and tie photo with Williams, I'm sure he's just wearing regular 1" dress shoes and so is Williams. John Saxon lost a lot of height growing old, check out his height page on this site. He was a legit 5'11" in his prime. In the Norris pic at the airport, Chuck was wearing giant heels.
Robert.R said on 18/Mar/07
Difference of opinion here. I would say 5'7.5" is ridiculous. The absolute maximum I would agree with is 5'7" first thing in the morning to 5'6.5" during the day.
Difference of opinion here. I would say 5'7.5" is ridiculous. The absolute maximum I would agree with is 5'7" first thing in the morning to 5'6.5" during the day.
Brad said on 18/Mar/07
Come on, Bruce wore big heels and even at 2" added he came to 5' 8" and Van was clearly taller than him by a lot of height. John Saxon is 5' 9". I've met him 3 times. I've seen too many photos of Saxon from "Enter The Dragon" clearly 3" higher than Bruce in flat footwear for each. Chuck Norris is taller than him at an airport by 3" in a shot I've seen. What's Norris? 5' 9"?
Come on, Bruce wore big heels and even at 2" added he came to 5' 8" and Van was clearly taller than him by a lot of height. John Saxon is 5' 9". I've met him 3 times. I've seen too many photos of Saxon from "Enter The Dragon" clearly 3" higher than Bruce in flat footwear for each. Chuck Norris is taller than him at an airport by 3" in a shot I've seen. What's Norris? 5' 9"?
Dunken said on 18/Mar/07
i have to give Bruce 5'7, on the spot, after rewatching his movies again (huge fan of Bruce as well):
- he was taller than both Sammo and Bolo, who are/were in the 5'6 range.
- he was around 4 inches shorter than 5'11 Saxon.
- he was fraction smaller than Norris (5'8 at the time?).
- a bit bigger then Unicorn Chan, who was also at the 5'6 range.
i'm 5'6, currently at 128lb, less then 2% body fat. when i look at Bruce's pics i get the feeling he looks a bit bigger then me.
i have to give Bruce 5'7, on the spot, after rewatching his movies again (huge fan of Bruce as well):
- he was taller than both Sammo and Bolo, who are/were in the 5'6 range.
- he was around 4 inches shorter than 5'11 Saxon.
- he was fraction smaller than Norris (5'8 at the time?).
- a bit bigger then Unicorn Chan, who was also at the 5'6 range.
i'm 5'6, currently at 128lb, less then 2% body fat. when i look at Bruce's pics i get the feeling he looks a bit bigger then me.
Anonymous2 said on 18/Mar/07
Ok, you wanna base on Van Williams? Then see this good side-side photo:
Click Here
Both Lee and Williams have about the same size head. I first ask you guys, how long you think the typical human head is? Well it's about 8-10", let's say 9" for the sake of argument. Now looking at their height difference, can you say they differ by *half* a head? No way, not even close! But if they were, that's roughly a 4.5" difference, so Williams being 6' (as Brad has said so having met the man in person), then would make Bruce be 5'7.5" spot on. But to me, the differnce looks more like 2/5 or 0.4 head lengths, for a difference more like 3.6", which would imply Bruce to be more like 5'8.5". Now I'll agree that's even a bit too tall for Bruce, it could be due to the fact that Williams' head is slightly tilted.
For a true 6" difference, the top of Bruce's head would line up just under Van William's nose-level, which isn't the case. Many of you guys just don't realize how short 5'6" is. Yes, I agree that 5'8" for Bruce is stretching it, but 5'7" sure isn't, nor is 5'7.5". 5'6" is ridiculous for Bruce!
Ok, you wanna base on Van Williams? Then see this good side-side photo:
Click Here
Both Lee and Williams have about the same size head. I first ask you guys, how long you think the typical human head is? Well it's about 8-10", let's say 9" for the sake of argument. Now looking at their height difference, can you say they differ by *half* a head? No way, not even close! But if they were, that's roughly a 4.5" difference, so Williams being 6' (as Brad has said so having met the man in person), then would make Bruce be 5'7.5" spot on. But to me, the differnce looks more like 2/5 or 0.4 head lengths, for a difference more like 3.6", which would imply Bruce to be more like 5'8.5". Now I'll agree that's even a bit too tall for Bruce, it could be due to the fact that Williams' head is slightly tilted.
For a true 6" difference, the top of Bruce's head would line up just under Van William's nose-level, which isn't the case. Many of you guys just don't realize how short 5'6" is. Yes, I agree that 5'8" for Bruce is stretching it, but 5'7" sure isn't, nor is 5'7.5". 5'6" is ridiculous for Bruce!
Brad said on 17/Mar/07
"Skinny & so weak"? When did I say that? By saying his body fat was zero is a compliment. Bruce was the one who said he had to watch out for ripping his muscles because in '71 he ripped his back muscles so badly he was confined to a bed for weeks. He was near bankrupt due to the medical bills. I'm not a Bruce Lee fan? I drove all the way to L.A. to meet most of the cast of "Enter The Dragon" some years back at a reunion as well as the Green Hornet cast. I was 10 when I met Lee in '67. I was 5' 5". He was a little guy. Van beats him by 6" in most every shot, look at Kato's shoes. 5' 8" for Bruce is ridiculous.
"Skinny & so weak"? When did I say that? By saying his body fat was zero is a compliment. Bruce was the one who said he had to watch out for ripping his muscles because in '71 he ripped his back muscles so badly he was confined to a bed for weeks. He was near bankrupt due to the medical bills. I'm not a Bruce Lee fan? I drove all the way to L.A. to meet most of the cast of "Enter The Dragon" some years back at a reunion as well as the Green Hornet cast. I was 10 when I met Lee in '67. I was 5' 5". He was a little guy. Van beats him by 6" in most every shot, look at Kato's shoes. 5' 8" for Bruce is ridiculous.
Robert.R said on 16/Mar/07
Incidentally, I am a Bruce Lee fan and just to reiterate my earlier comment, my opinion of his height does in no way whatsoever deter my respect for his martial arts skills, however, he would not be the first person to add an inch or two to his height and I doubt he will be the last.
Incidentally, I am a Bruce Lee fan and just to reiterate my earlier comment, my opinion of his height does in no way whatsoever deter my respect for his martial arts skills, however, he would not be the first person to add an inch or two to his height and I doubt he will be the last.
Robert.R said on 16/Mar/07
Anonymous2. Bruce Lee's wife once stated that he was 5'6" and in my opinion he looks it, he may well have been 5'8" shoe height but I cannot seriously believe he was anywhere near that height in barefoot. I cannot supply any solid proof, however, I have seen no solid proof as yet to the contrary. So I suppose we will have to agree to disagree. I do respect your opinion though, which is what this page is about.
Anonymous2. Bruce Lee's wife once stated that he was 5'6" and in my opinion he looks it, he may well have been 5'8" shoe height but I cannot seriously believe he was anywhere near that height in barefoot. I cannot supply any solid proof, however, I have seen no solid proof as yet to the contrary. So I suppose we will have to agree to disagree. I do respect your opinion though, which is what this page is about.
Anonymous2 said on 16/Mar/07
And Robert R. what you said about the "stretching measuring tape" doesn't quite make sense, as Bruce stated being 5'8" BEFORE he got famous. Rob, didn't you have a link a while back with a picture showing the height charts Bruce made of himself while training and teaching martial arts before his acting career? And which magazines stated him being 5'6" if you don't mind me asking? I have a friend who owns a vintage magazine and book store who could easily look this stuff up.
Editor Rob
And Robert R. what you said about the "stretching measuring tape" doesn't quite make sense, as Bruce stated being 5'8" BEFORE he got famous. Rob, didn't you have a link a while back with a picture showing the height charts Bruce made of himself while training and teaching martial arts before his acting career? And which magazines stated him being 5'6" if you don't mind me asking? I have a friend who owns a vintage magazine and book store who could easily look this stuff up.
Editor Rob yeah, its around on the web somewhere, before fame, the gym improvement sheet...
Anonymous2 said on 16/Mar/07
Brad and Robert R. I respect your opinions, enjoyed all your accounts of meeting Bruce or people who knew him and sharing your stories, but unfortunately you have not provided anything near SOLID PROOF that can justify Bruce being under 5'7". Only anectdotes and opinions. If there's an article out there with someone creditable (his wife, masters, students or even Bruce himself) claiming he was 5'6" then I shall be the first to eat my words and admit that he is, but until then, every shred of solid photographic and written evidence have pointed to Bruce Lee being at a 5'7" minimum height with a chance of being a little over.
Brad and Robert R. I respect your opinions, enjoyed all your accounts of meeting Bruce or people who knew him and sharing your stories, but unfortunately you have not provided anything near SOLID PROOF that can justify Bruce being under 5'7". Only anectdotes and opinions. If there's an article out there with someone creditable (his wife, masters, students or even Bruce himself) claiming he was 5'6" then I shall be the first to eat my words and admit that he is, but until then, every shred of solid photographic and written evidence have pointed to Bruce Lee being at a 5'7" minimum height with a chance of being a little over.
Anonymous2 said on 16/Mar/07
Let's not forget a few important things folks:
i) Bruce himself said he was 5'8". Sure he may have rounded up or gave his "shoe height", but who can seriously get away with exaggerating TWO full inches?
Let's not forget a few important things folks:
i) Bruce himself said he was 5'8". Sure he may have rounded up or gave his "shoe height", but who can seriously get away with exaggerating TWO full inches?
Anonymous2 said on 16/Mar/07
Brad, what's with all the low blows? Skinny and so weak that he'd always rip his muscles working out? Shorter than the 12 year old kid you were?! Come on bro, wassup?! You're clearly not a Bruce Lee fan and it shows. For the record, the man did pushups on two fingers and did shoulder raises and curls with dumbells 220+lb bodybuilders are normally accustomed to. In the beach photo with Van Williams, Bruce is standing on much lower ground and his leg in a bent running pose, totally useless to judge height.
Brad, what's with all the low blows? Skinny and so weak that he'd always rip his muscles working out? Shorter than the 12 year old kid you were?! Come on bro, wassup?! You're clearly not a Bruce Lee fan and it shows. For the record, the man did pushups on two fingers and did shoulder raises and curls with dumbells 220+lb bodybuilders are normally accustomed to. In the beach photo with Van Williams, Bruce is standing on much lower ground and his leg in a bent running pose, totally useless to judge height.
Brad said on 13/Mar/07
His body fat was zero. He was a little guy who had to watch out he didn't rip his muscles which he did and put him down for weeks on a shoot.
His body fat was zero. He was a little guy who had to watch out he didn't rip his muscles which he did and put him down for weeks on a shoot.
Robert.R said on 13/Mar/07
I take nothing away from his brilliance as a Master of the Martial Arts, however, articles in the early seventies always stated his height as 5'6" which from my observations have been correct, then listings of 5'7" appeared and finally the most popular which is 5'71/2". Then he stated he was 5'8", I can only assume his tape measure had stretched.
I take nothing away from his brilliance as a Master of the Martial Arts, however, articles in the early seventies always stated his height as 5'6" which from my observations have been correct, then listings of 5'7" appeared and finally the most popular which is 5'71/2". Then he stated he was 5'8", I can only assume his tape measure had stretched.
Brad said on 13/Mar/07
Somewhere is the photo of Van & Bruce on the beach in barefeet and Van has him by 6" easy. My aunt worked for Irwin Allen at Fox and was afraid of his dog. I guess from what she said, he was almost as big as Bruce was.
Somewhere is the photo of Van & Bruce on the beach in barefeet and Van has him by 6" easy. My aunt worked for Irwin Allen at Fox and was afraid of his dog. I guess from what she said, he was almost as big as Bruce was.
Robert.R said on 11/Mar/07
I go along with 5'6" Brad. He looks nowhere near 5.71/2" to me.
I go along with 5'6" Brad. He looks nowhere near 5.71/2" to me.
Brad said on 11/Mar/07
A little over my height in full Kato attire (with mask on) and those Cuban heel boots he wore at a NYC car show 40 years ago. 5' 6". I've met Van Williams a few times and 6' is accurate so subtract 6". The "Enter The Dragon" cast came to Ray Courts' celebrity show a some years back....amazing how small you'd picture Bruce next to them. Bob Wall looks like he could take on an army, he's awesome. His fists were massive.
A little over my height in full Kato attire (with mask on) and those Cuban heel boots he wore at a NYC car show 40 years ago. 5' 6". I've met Van Williams a few times and 6' is accurate so subtract 6". The "Enter The Dragon" cast came to Ray Courts' celebrity show a some years back....amazing how small you'd picture Bruce next to them. Bob Wall looks like he could take on an army, he's awesome. His fists were massive.
Robert.R said on 1/Mar/07
The wingspan theory is a new one on me trueheight. Guess you learn something new everyday.
The wingspan theory is a new one on me trueheight. Guess you learn something new everyday.
trueheight said on 24/Feb/07
I think 5,7.5 is the best estimate as the most esteemed sources(John Little). He was reported to have a 6ft wingspang which makes sense since wingspang can range from same to over 4in more than height in average males. I'm 5'9 and have a 73in wingspan; go figure
I think 5,7.5 is the best estimate as the most esteemed sources(John Little). He was reported to have a 6ft wingspang which makes sense since wingspang can range from same to over 4in more than height in average males. I'm 5'9 and have a 73in wingspan; go figure
Robert.R said on 15/Feb/07
I would agree JoseK.
I would agree JoseK.
JoseK. said on 13/Feb/07
From the pic with BL and TIEN (5-10). Bruce looks dead on 5'7 or possibly a bit less.
From the pic with BL and TIEN (5-10). Bruce looks dead on 5'7 or possibly a bit less.
Robert. R said on 17/Jan/07
I must admit Anonymouts that the 4th image where he is wearing jeans shows that I was wrong in thinking he had a short body and like I have said I have never met him so I don't know for sure. I have seen numerous articles which have stated he is anything between 5'3" and 5'8" though the majority of them lean towards his being 5' 7.5". I have looked closely at all his pictures and I still think he looks in the 5'6" range. Whatever his height I still have alot of admiration for him and his martial arts skills.
I must admit Anonymouts that the 4th image where he is wearing jeans shows that I was wrong in thinking he had a short body and like I have said I have never met him so I don't know for sure. I have seen numerous articles which have stated he is anything between 5'3" and 5'8" though the majority of them lean towards his being 5' 7.5". I have looked closely at all his pictures and I still think he looks in the 5'6" range. Whatever his height I still have alot of admiration for him and his martial arts skills.
Glenn said on 17/Jan/07
Yeah,anything is possible.even 5-6.but 5-7 makes the most sense.
Yeah,anything is possible.even 5-6.but 5-7 makes the most sense.
Robert.R said on 17/Jan/07
I think your guess is about right Glenn. I think he was probably about 170cm first thing in the morning and I am sure he was smaller than you. Obviously, no one can prove his height now and I have no actual proof to back up what I think. I am just going by the man's stature. He appeared to me to have a short body and legs.
I think your guess is about right Glenn. I think he was probably about 170cm first thing in the morning and I am sure he was smaller than you. Obviously, no one can prove his height now and I have no actual proof to back up what I think. I am just going by the man's stature. He appeared to me to have a short body and legs.
Glenn said on 16/Jan/07
My best guess is Bruce 5-7.who knows,maybe Bruce was 5-8 and Norris was 5-9.I coincendtly ran into the rare few I know that met Bruce last week.they say he was smaller than me.but couldnt say by how much.
My best guess is Bruce 5-7.who knows,maybe Bruce was 5-8 and Norris was 5-9.I coincendtly ran into the rare few I know that met Bruce last week.they say he was smaller than me.but couldnt say by how much.
Robert.R said on 16/Jan/07
Surely Norris was more than an inch taller than Lee and don't forget, in the seventies Lee wore platform shoes.
Surely Norris was more than an inch taller than Lee and don't forget, in the seventies Lee wore platform shoes.
Franco said on 16/Jan/07
no LYNN i don't agree, BL was 5'7.5 and Norris is 5'8.5
today Chuck Norris is a 5'8 and thanks to the boots he wear often looks 5'10.
NO DOUBT! ;)
no LYNN i don't agree, BL was 5'7.5 and Norris is 5'8.5
today Chuck Norris is a 5'8 and thanks to the boots he wear often looks 5'10.
NO DOUBT! ;)
Lynn said on 16/Jan/07
I think the BL height problem is easy to solve observing the photo with John Saxon.
For example Click Here
Four real inches or plus, not 3".
And we don't really know how tall is Tien but we all know that Saxon was 5'10 max in his prime.
I think the BL height problem is easy to solve observing the photo with John Saxon.
For example Click Here
Four real inches or plus, not 3".
And we don't really know how tall is Tien but we all know that Saxon was 5'10 max in his prime.
Robert.R said on 16/Jan/07
Bruce Lee is one of those people who always looked short to me in his photographs and his films. If I would have had to guess his height I would have said around 5'6". I know he has always been listed as 5'7.5" but I find that difficult to believe.
Bruce Lee is one of those people who always looked short to me in his photographs and his films. If I would have had to guess his height I would have said around 5'6". I know he has always been listed as 5'7.5" but I find that difficult to believe.
Lynn said on 16/Jan/07
Anonymous,
yes, taken just from this site:
"found an article from AustinActors where the writer says: "In addition, Terry and Eddy both mentioned, "You know Chuck wears lifts in his shoes." Supposedly, Chuck is only around 5'7" tall and most of the people playing opposite of him were required to be his height or shorter". In many of the barefoot shots of chuck and bruce from early days there isn't much between them."
I say 5'7 Norris and 5'6 BL in their prime.
Anonymous,
yes, taken just from this site:
"found an article from AustinActors where the writer says: "In addition, Terry and Eddy both mentioned, "You know Chuck wears lifts in his shoes." Supposedly, Chuck is only around 5'7" tall and most of the people playing opposite of him were required to be his height or shorter". In many of the barefoot shots of chuck and bruce from early days there isn't much between them."
I say 5'7 Norris and 5'6 BL in their prime.
Anonymous said on 15/Jan/07
Norris might not be solid 5'9"/175cm but is very close to it. This site lists him at 174cm:
Click Here
Chuck could have been 175cm when he was younger in his prime during the Bruce Lee era, or now in the morning. At any rate, Bruce often looks so close in height to him it leaves no doubt in my mind Bruce was nothing under 5'7".
I was a big BL fan myself when I was younger. I'm 5'9" now as an adult, and always thought he was a solid 5'8" from the bio's on him. As a teenager, I was a solid 5'8" and always thought it was cool how "I was as tall as Bruce". But my friend's martial-arts teacher who once trained under Bruce in the 60's said Bruce was a tad shorter than me, so I thought he must have been 5'7". But the photos with Chuck and Bolo show he was a bit over 5'7".
Another one with Chuck, slightly rotated in Chuck's favor. Straighten it out to show they're within 1" apart.
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Norris might not be solid 5'9"/175cm but is very close to it. This site lists him at 174cm:
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Chuck could have been 175cm when he was younger in his prime during the Bruce Lee era, or now in the morning. At any rate, Bruce often looks so close in height to him it leaves no doubt in my mind Bruce was nothing under 5'7".
I was a big BL fan myself when I was younger. I'm 5'9" now as an adult, and always thought he was a solid 5'8" from the bio's on him. As a teenager, I was a solid 5'8" and always thought it was cool how "I was as tall as Bruce". But my friend's martial-arts teacher who once trained under Bruce in the 60's said Bruce was a tad shorter than me, so I thought he must have been 5'7". But the photos with Chuck and Bolo show he was a bit over 5'7".
Another one with Chuck, slightly rotated in Chuck's favor. Straighten it out to show they're within 1" apart.
Click Here
Dunken said on 15/Jan/07
lynn: Bolo is 5'6. it's all over the net.
and Norris is nothing over 5'9.
lynn: Bolo is 5'6. it's all over the net.
and Norris is nothing over 5'9.
lynn said on 15/Jan/07
Anonymous,
we cannot really know how tall were Tien and Bolo.
But regarding Norris.
Do you really think he can be 5'9?
I don't like to compare height and weight but in tha case of Norris I do.
He was 7 time karate world champion Pro in the MEDIUM weight and he was massive.He cannot be 5'9.
Anonymous,
we cannot really know how tall were Tien and Bolo.
But regarding Norris.
Do you really think he can be 5'9?
I don't like to compare height and weight but in tha case of Norris I do.
He was 7 time karate world champion Pro in the MEDIUM weight and he was massive.He cannot be 5'9.
lynn said on 14/Jan/07
Who said James Tien is ( was ) 5'10?
I don't think so.
Bruce was my idol when I was 17 but I have always known that he is far less then 5.7. Maybe no more than 5'6
Who said James Tien is ( was ) 5'10?
I don't think so.
Bruce was my idol when I was 17 but I have always known that he is far less then 5.7. Maybe no more than 5'6
trueheight said on 14/Jan/07
That photo w/ Kareem and Tien - Tien is wearing some sort of shoe, those aren't feet or socks
That photo w/ Kareem and Tien - Tien is wearing some sort of shoe, those aren't feet or socks
Arjun said on 11/Jan/07
SirCharles: Great pic of Bruce, Kareem and Tien. Kareem has LONG limbs, almost all his height is in his legs, his head/neck are barely any longer than Bruce's or Tien's. But I think Bruce looks 5'7+" in the pic, as he's only three inches shorter than Tien , not 4.5, and you have to take off a couple cm for Tien's shoes too. He does'nt look as short as 5'6" with Kareem either.
Cheers,
Arjun
SirCharles: Great pic of Bruce, Kareem and Tien. Kareem has LONG limbs, almost all his height is in his legs, his head/neck are barely any longer than Bruce's or Tien's. But I think Bruce looks 5'7+" in the pic, as he's only three inches shorter than Tien , not 4.5, and you have to take off a couple cm for Tien's shoes too. He does'nt look as short as 5'6" with Kareem either.
Cheers,
Arjun
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