Steffi Duke

Written by Steffi Duke

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

20-facts-about-andre-the-giant
Source: Hbo.com

Andre the Giant, born André René Roussimoff, was a legendary figure in the world of professional wrestling. Standing at an astounding 7 feet 4 inches tall and weighing over 500 pounds, he was not only a formidable opponent in the ring but also a beloved personality outside of it. Andre’s larger-than-life presence and his incredible feats of strength made him an iconic figure in the world of sports entertainment.

In this article, we will explore 20 fascinating facts about the man behind the myth. From his early life in rural France to his record-breaking wrestling career, we will delve into the details that paint a comprehensive picture of this extraordinary individual.

So, grab a ringside seat and get ready to dive into the remarkable life and legacy of Andre the Giant!

Key Takeaways:

  • Andre the Giant, a larger-than-life wrestler, stood at 7 feet 4 inches and weighed over 500 pounds. His incredible career and legendary drinking abilities made him a beloved figure in the wrestling world.
  • Despite his imposing size, Andre the Giant had a gentle nature and a heartwarming friendship with actor Billy Crystal. His legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time continues to inspire and captivate audiences.
Table of Contents

Andre the Giant was born on May 19, 1946.

Andre the Giant, whose real name was André René Roussimoff, entered the world on May 19, 1946, in Grenoble, France.

He suffered from acromegaly.

Andre the Giant had a condition called acromegaly, which resulted in excessive growth and gigantism. This made him stand out wherever he went.

Andre the Giant stood at a height of 7 feet 4 inches.

With his imposing height of 7 feet 4 inches, Andre the Giant was an undeniable presence both inside and outside the wrestling ring.

He weighed over 500 pounds.

Due to his significant stature, Andre the Giant weighed in at over 500 pounds during his prime wrestling career.

Andre the Giant had an incredible wrestling career.

Known as “The Eighth Wonder of the World,” Andre the Giant had a remarkable professional wrestling career that spanned over three decades.

He was a part of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now known as WWE.

Andre the Giant gained immense popularity while being associated with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1970s and 1980s.

Andre the Giant’s famous feud with Hulk Hogan.

One of the most legendary rivalries in professional wrestling history was between Andre the Giant and Hulk Hogan. Their epic showdown at WrestleMania III is still talked about today.

He starred in the cult classic film “The Princess Bride.”

Andre the Giant showcased his acting skills in the beloved film “The Princess Bride” where he played the role of Fezzik, the gentle giant.

Andre the Giant was an incredible drinker.

Known for his legendary drinking abilities, Andre the Giant could consume massive amounts of alcohol without showing signs of being intoxicated.

He holds the record for the most alcohol consumed in one sitting.

Andre the Giant reportedly drank 119 beers in just six hours, solidifying his name in the Guinness Book of World Records for the most alcohol consumed in a single sitting.

Andre the Giant had a heartwarming friendship with actor and comedian Billy Crystal.

Billy Crystal shared a close friendship with Andre the Giant, and their bond was showcased in an emotional tribute during the 2013 WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

He had a unique connection with children.

Despite his larger-than-life appearance, Andre the Giant had a gentle and kind nature, especially when interacting with children, who were captivated by his presence.

Andre the Giant’s shoes were gigantic.

With his enormous feet, Andre the Giant wore shoes that were a staggering size 22.

He had a memorable appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.”

Andre the Giant made a memorable guest appearance on “The Tonight Show” in 1979, showcasing his charm and larger-than-life personality.

Andre the Giant’s real-life strength was astonishing.

Aside from his wrestling persona, Andre the Giant possessed immense physical strength in real life and demonstrated it during various instances.

He disliked flying due to his size.

Traveling became a challenge for Andre the Giant due to his massive size, and he often had to rely on alternative modes of transportation.

Andre the Giant was loved by fellow wrestlers and fans alike.

Throughout his career, Andre the Giant garnered immense respect and admiration from his fellow wrestlers and fans worldwide.

He retired from professional wrestling in 1992.

Andre the Giant retired from professional wrestling in 1992, leaving a lasting legacy and countless unforgettable moments behind.

Andre the Giant passed away on January 27, 1993.

Unfortunately, Andre the Giant’s life was cut short when he passed away on January 27, 1993, at the age of His impact on the wrestling world will never be forgotten.

Andre the Giant’s legacy endures.

Even though Andre the Giant is no longer with us, his legacy as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time lives on. His story continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Andre the Giant was a truly remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling and beyond. With his larger-than-life persona and incredible physical stature, he captivated audiences for decades.From his impressive feats of strength to his endearing personality, Andre the Giant will always be remembered as one of the greatest icons in the history of sports entertainment. His legacy lives on through the countless stories and moments shared by fans and fellow wrestlers alike.Whether it was his astounding height, his infamous battles inside the ring, or his humble and gentle nature outside of it, Andre the Giant will forever be recognized as a true legend. His impact on the world of wrestling cannot be overstated, and his memory will continue to inspire generations to come.

FAQs

1. How tall was Andre the Giant?

Andre the Giant stood at an incredible height of 7 feet 4 inches, making him one of the tallest professional wrestlers in history.

2. Did Andre the Giant have any health conditions?

Yes, Andre the Giant suffered from acromegaly, a condition that caused excessive growth hormone production. This contributed to his exceptional size and stature.

3. How much did Andre the Giant weigh?

At his heaviest, Andre the Giant weighed around 500 pounds. His size and weight made him an intimidating force in the wrestling ring.

4. What were some of Andre the Giant’s notable achievements in wrestling?

Andre the Giant was a WWE Hall of Famer, and he won numerous championships throughout his career. Perhaps his most notable achievement was defeating Hulk Hogan in one of the most iconic matches in wrestling history.

5. Did Andre the Giant participate in any movies or TV shows?

Yes, Andre the Giant appeared in several movies and TV shows, including his memorable role as Fezzik in the classic film “The Princess Bride.”

6. Was Andre the Giant as gentle outside the ring as he was portrayed?

Yes, despite his imposing size, Andre the Giant was known for his kindness and gentleness. He was beloved by his friends, family, and fellow wrestlers.

7. How did Andre the Giant’s legacy impact professional wrestling?

Andre the Giant’s legacy continues to influence professional wrestling. His larger-than-life persona and incredible career have inspired generations of wrestlers, and he will forever be remembered as one of the all-time greats.

8. Are there any documentaries about Andre the Giant?

Yes, there is a documentary titled “Andre the Giant” that provides an in-depth look into his life and career. It offers a captivating glimpse into the man behind the legend.

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