Mary Ellen "Mel" Harris, standing tall at 5ft 8 (172.7 cm), is an American actress whose poised stature perfectly suited her iconic role as the relatable Hope Murdoch Steadman in the ABC drama series Thirtysomething (1987–1991). Harris herself noted in a 1989 Rolling Stone article that she and her character share this exact height, enhancing her authentic portrayal of the everyday professional woman. Her performance earned a Golden Globe nomination in 1990, cementing her as a standout talent whose 5ft 8 frame brought grounded elegance to the screen.