Andre the Giant | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : December 20, 2024

Who is Andre the Giant?

Andre the Giant, born André René Roussimoff on May 19, 1946, in Coulommiers, France, was a legendary professional wrestler and actor renowned for his extraordinary size and charisma. Standing at an estimated height of 7-foot-1 and weighing between 380 and 555 pounds, he made an indelible mark on wrestling in the 1970s and "80s. He famously battled Hulk Hogan in the iconic Wrestlemania III, becoming known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Andre's size was the result of acromegaly, a hormonal disorder that caused excessive growth, leading to a larger-than-life persona that resonated with fans worldwide.

Beyond the wrestling ring, Andre enjoyed crossover success in Hollywood, most notably starring as Fezzik in the beloved 1987 film "The Princess Bride." Despite facing numerous challenges due to his size, including pain and mobility issues, he showcased his acting talent and endearing personality, solidifying his status as an enduring pop culture icon. His legacy is further immortalized in various documentaries and biographies that explore his life's complexities, highlighting both the triumphs and struggles he faced, including his relationship with his daughter, Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, and his untimely passing at age 46 from congestive heart failure.

Early Life and Education

André René Roussimoff, famously known as Andre the Giant, was born on May 19, 1946, in Coulommiers, France. Weighing an astonishing 13 pounds at birth, it was evident from an early age that he was destined for a life far beyond the ordinary. While he was often billed as hailing from Grenoble in the French Alps, Andre actually spent his formative years in the small town of Molien, located approximately 40 miles east of Paris. He was the eldest of five siblings, and during his childhood, he developed an unusual bond with renowned playwright Samuel Beckett, who occasionally offered him rides to school.

At the age of 14, Andre left school in compliance with local laws and entered the workforce. It was during this time that the effects of his acromegaly became increasingly noticeable, leading him to grow to an imposing height of nearly 6-foot-6 by just 15 years old. This hormonal disorder, caused by an overproduction of growth hormone, played a significant role in his distinctive physical stature. Andre faced unique challenges in his daily life due to his size, often remarking, "They don't build anything for a giant." Despite the difficulties, he began a career in wrestling shortly after, which would ultimately lead him to international fame.

Acromegaly and Its Impact on His Life

Andre the Giant, born André René Roussimoff, suffered from acromegaly, a disorder characterized by excessive growth hormone production by the pituitary gland. This hormonal condition caused Andre to experience gigantism, leading to rapid growth during his teenage years. By 15, he had reached nearly 6-foot-6, a height that would eventually play a pivotal role in his wrestling career. While acromegaly gave him the remarkable stature that made him a wrestling icon, it also came with challenges that permeated his daily life, from vehicle accommodations to the design of public spaces that could accommodate his size.

The struggles of living with acromegaly were profound for Andre. He faced discomfort and pain due to his sheer size, which ultimately contributed to his health issues later in life. His experience of discomfort was exacerbated by frequent travel for wrestling, which offered little in terms of comfort for someone of his stature. Despite these challenges, Andre initially opted against treatment for his condition, fearing it might hinder his wrestling career. As he became a worldwide celebrity, he often grappled with the complexities of personal relationships, feeling that many desired his friendship not for who he was but for his imposing presence. Ultimately, while acromegaly defined much of his public persona, it also shaped the private struggles he faced.

Wrestling Career and Notable Matches

Andre the Giant, born André René Roussimoff in France, is best known for his extraordinary wrestling career that began in the 1960s. Initially wrestling under the name Jean Ferré, he showcased his remarkable size and strength, quickly gaining attention. By 1973, he had adopted the name 'Andre the Giant" and became a massive star in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), which later transformed into WWE. Andre was often billed as "The Eighth Wonder of the World," a title that aptly reflected his larger-than-life persona and physical presence in the ring, captivating audiences across the globe.

One of the most iconic moments of Andre's wrestling career occurred at Wrestlemania III in 1987, where he faced off against Hulk Hogan in a match that has since become legendary. The event portrayed Andre as an undefeated wrestler who had never been body-slammed, a narrative that, while exaggerated, showcased the immense draw of both competitors. The clash drew a record audience, cementing Andre’s status as one of the biggest stars in wrestling history. Throughout his career, Andre participated in over 5,000 matches, and his legacy was solidified when he became the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame following his death in 1993, honoring his contributions to the sport and entertainment industry.

The Princess Bride and Acting Career

André the Giant, known for his legendary stature in the wrestling world, also left an indelible mark in the film industry, particularly with his role in the beloved movie "The Princess Bride". Directed by Rob Reiner and released in 1987, the film featured André as Fezzik, a gentle giant with a heart of gold. Despite initial concerns about his ability to deliver lines clearly, André proved naysayers wrong, showcasing a charming performance that endeared him to audiences. His portrayal highlighted not only his physicality but also his ability to convey warmth and humor, embodying the spirit of the character perfectly.

Prior to "The Princess Bride", André had dabbled in acting, appearing in various television shows and even a French film. His commitment to acting was evident throughout the filming process, even though he struggled with back pain that affected his mobility. The production adapted to his needs, utilizing cables for both André and his co-stars during stunts. His fondness for the film remained long after its release; he often carried a copy to share with friends and fans, proud of his accomplishment in a project that blended adventure and romance. André's transition from wrestling to acting demonstrated his versatility and broadened his legacy beyond the wrestling ring.

Personal Life: Daughter and Relationships

Andre the Giant, despite his larger-than-life persona in the wrestling ring, had a complex personal life that was often overshadowed by his career. He fathered a daughter, Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, born in 1979. Andre and her mother, Jean Christensen, were not married, which created a challenging co-parenting dynamic. His demanding travel schedule made it difficult for him to maintain a close relationship with Robin. Although their interactions were limited to visits during matches in Seattle and occasional phone conversations, Andre remained fond of her. He made Robin the primary beneficiary in his will, indicating the importance he placed on her well-being.

Due to Andre's struggle with his health and the impact of acromegaly, he often faced difficulties in forming lasting relationships. He expressed concerns that people were more interested in his size than in forming genuine connections. Andre often felt exploited by others, leading him to limit his personal relationships to a select few. His image as a giant and a wrestling icon sometimes conflicted with his desire for personal connections, leaving him to navigate the intricacies of fame and personal ties throughout his life.

Net Worth and Earning: Career Earnings

Andre the Giant amassed significant wealth throughout his illustrious wrestling career, which spanned over two decades. His earnings derived primarily from wrestling matches, where he headlined numerous marquee events, including high-profile bouts in the WWE. It’s estimated that Andre earned millions in his lifetime, with earnings peaking during the height of professional wrestling’s popularity in the 1980s. While specific figures regarding his total net worth at the time of his passing are challenging to ascertain due to the fluctuating nature of the wrestling business, it is widely accepted that his financial success afforded him a comfortable lifestyle.

In addition to his wrestling income, Andre found crossover success in Hollywood, with his most famous role being that of Fezzik in the classic film “The Princess Bride.” His foray into acting not only enhanced his fame but also contributed to his earnings. Throughout his career, Andre was known as a draw, capable of filling arenas worldwide, which further solidified his financial standing. After his untimely death in 1993, he left a legacy that included various financial ventures, including royalties from merchandise and appearances, solidifying his position as one of the industry's greatest icons.

FAQs

Who was Andre the Giant?

Andre the Giant, born André René Roussimoff on May 19, 1946, was a French professional wrestler and actor renowned for his immense size due to acromegaly, a hormonal disorder. He dominated the wrestling scene in the 1970s and "80s, becoming a global icon, and is famously recognized for his role as Fezzik in the classic film The Princess Bride.

What was the cause of Andre the Giant's size?

Andre had acromegaly, a condition caused by an excess of growth hormone released from the pituitary gland. This condition resulted in his gigantic stature, which made him stand almost 7 foot 2 inches tall and weigh between 380 and 555 lbs. his entire life was shaped by the challenges and experiences that came with his extraordinary size.

What was Andre the Giant's wrestling career like?

Andre began his wrestling career in France under the name Jean Ferré in 1966. He later transitioned to notable promotions in the United States and became widely known as 'Andre the Giant." Over his career, he participated in over 5,000 matches and faced off with other wrestling legends including Hulk Hogan during Wrestlemania III in 1987, solidifying his place in wrestling history.

What impact did Andre have on popular culture?

Beyond wrestling, Andre made a significant impact on popular culture, especially with his acclaimed role in The Princess Bride. His portrayal of Fezzik endeared him to audiences and allowed him to reach a broader demographic. He has also been featured in various documentaries and books that highlight his unique life story, keeping his legacy alive.

How and when did Andre the Giant die?

Andre died on January 28, 1993, from congestive heart failure at the age of 46. His condition was linked to his untreated acromegaly. Initially in France for his father's funeral, his passing prompted an immense outpouring of grief within the wrestling community and his fans worldwide.

Did Andre the Giant have any children?

Yes, Andre had a daughter named Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, who was born in 1979. Although they had a rocky co-parenting relationship, Andre made significant efforts to maintain contact with Robin, leaving her as the main beneficiary in his will. Robin has shared that a longer life for her father could have fostered a closer relationship.

What is known about Andre's health challenges?

Andre faced numerous health challenges related to his size and acromegaly. Despite his fame and success, he dealt with significant pain and discomfort throughout his life. Treatment options for his condition were available but were turned down during his wrestling career, which may have contributed to his declining health in later years.

How is Andre the Giant remembered today?

Andre's legacy continues to be honored in various forms, from documentaries like the 2018 film Andre the Giant to representations in literature and art. He holds a revered place in wrestling history, being the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame, and remains a celebrated figure in both the wrestling and entertainment industries.