London, UK (15 March 2010) – Guinness World Records today received the sad news that one of the most iconic and beloved record holders of recent years, He Pingping (China, b. 1988), the shortest man in the world, passed away over the weekend.

He Pingping, who measured 74.61cm (2’ 5.37”), was born in Huade County in Wulanchabu, China, with a form of primordial dwarfism. He was discovered by a local journalist and was officially measured by a team of doctors and Editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records, Craig Glenday, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, back in March 2008. From that point onwards, Pingping became a recognised figure across the world, appearing at event launches, TV shows and photoshoots. He never shied away from the media limelight or the fans who were fascinated to meet him.

Pingping was in Rome, Italy, with his brother-in-law to take part in ‘Lo Show Dei Record’, a locally produced records show, where he was taken ill with a chest complaint. TV producers insisted he be examined at a nearby hospital, and although he received treatment, a few days later he passed away at the hospital. The results of a post mortem examination are due but it is understood that Pingping had heart complications.

"I had the pleasure of meeting Pingping back in 2008 in Inner Mongolia," said Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief Craig Glenday, who was the first to confirm Pingping's status as the world's shortest man. "From the moment I laid on eyes on him I knew he was someone special - he had such a cheeky smile and mischievous personality, you couldn't help but be charmed by him. He brightened up the lives of everyone he met, and was an inspiration to anyone considered different or unusual”. Glenday continued ‘Pingping showed us that, despite the challenges we face, we can still make the most out of life, and for such a small man, he made a huge impact around the world. Everyone at Guinness World Records is very saddened by the loss of such a wonderful, engaging, fascinating character – he will be greatly missed and we would like to offer our deepest condolences to his family and friends”.

Producers for the Italian TV show, Europroduzione, added “From all of us here at the production, we want to extend our deepest condolences to He Pingping’s family”.

Guinness World Records will pay tribute to He Pingping in their next edition and his successor will be announced in due course.

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