André the Giant, French professional wrestler and actor (b. 1946)

André René Roussimoff, globally recognized by his iconic ring name André the Giant, was a towering figure in both professional wrestling and pop culture. Born on May 19, 1946, in Coulommiers, France, and passing away prematurely on January 27, 1993, Roussimoff's colossal stature defined his career and public image. His immense size, which earned him the moniker "The Eighth Wonder of the World," was a direct result of gigantism, a condition caused by the excessive production of growth hormone, specifically diagnosed as acromegaly. This hormonal disorder led to continuous growth throughout his life, giving him an imposing physical presence that captivated audiences worldwide, though it also contributed to significant health challenges, particularly in his later years.

The Rise of a Global "Special Attraction"

André Roussimoff embarked on his professional wrestling journey in 1966, initially competing in France and later Canada. Recognizing the immense potential of his unique physique, he relocated to North America in 1971. It was there that his career truly soared under the guidance of World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) promoter Vincent J. McMahon. From 1973 through the mid-1980s, André was strategically booked as a roving "special attraction." This unique approach allowed him to travel extensively, wrestling for various promotions across the United States and internationally, including acclaimed tours with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. This booking strategy not only preserved his health by limiting his in-ring schedule but also cultivated an aura of invincibility and exclusivity around his appearances, making every match a must-see event.

Main Event Status in the Golden Era of Wrestling

As the 1980s heralded an unprecedented boom in professional wrestling, André the Giant became an indispensable cornerstone of the renamed World Wrestling Federation (WWF). His legendary status was further cemented through high-profile storylines, most notably his alliance with the villainous manager Bobby "The Brain" Heenan. This pairing dramatically transformed André from a beloved fan favorite into a formidable antagonist, setting the stage for one of the most iconic feuds in wrestling history against the sport's biggest star, Hulk Hogan.

The culmination of this epic rivalry was the main event of WrestleMania III in 1987, held at the Pontiac Silverdome. This historic encounter, famously drawing an astounding official attendance of 93,173 fans, stands as one of the most significant wrestling matches of all time. Though André suffered his first televised pinfall loss to Hogan at this event, their rivalry continued to escalate. In a shocking turn of events on the inaugural episode of NBC's "The Main Event" in February 1988, André defeated Hulk Hogan to capture the WWF Championship, marking his sole world heavyweight championship reign. However, the victory was immediately mired in controversy as André attempted to sell the championship belt to "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, an act deemed invalid by WWF President Jack Tunney, leading to the title being vacated.

Later Career, Health Challenges, and Enduring Legacy

As the early 1990s approached, André's demanding career and the escalating effects of his acromegaly began to take a toll on his health. After WrestleMania VI in 1990, his appearances in the WWF became less frequent. He transitioned to wrestling primarily for All Japan Pro-Wrestling, often teaming with another legendary giant, Giant Baba, a partnership that resonated deeply with Japanese audiences due to their mutual respect and shared physical attributes. André René Roussimoff's life was tragically cut short on January 27, 1993, at the age of 46, due to congestive heart failure, a common complication of untreated gigantism.

His profound impact on the industry was immediately recognized posthumously. In a testament to his unparalleled career, André the Giant became the inaugural inductee into the newly established WWF Hall of Fame in 1993, forever cementing his place in wrestling history. He was also later honored as a charter member of the prestigious Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame and the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. The latter institution aptly described him as "one of the most recognizable figures in the world both as a professional wrestler and as a pop culture icon," a sentiment reinforced by his memorable acting career.

Beyond the squared circle, André achieved mainstream recognition through his performance as Fezzik, the gentle giant, in the beloved 1987 fantasy film "The Princess Bride." His natural charisma and towering presence made him an unforgettable part of the movie's enduring appeal, showcasing his ability to transcend the wrestling world and become a cherished figure in global entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions About André the Giant

What caused André the Giant's immense size?

André's extraordinary stature was due to gigantism, a condition resulting from an excess production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland, specifically diagnosed as acromegaly. This led to continuous growth of his bones and soft tissues throughout his life.

What was André the Giant's real name?

His birth name was André René Roussimoff.

When did André the Giant pass away?

André René Roussimoff passed away on January 27, 1993, at the age of 46.

Was André the Giant the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame?

Yes, André the Giant was the inaugural and sole inductee into the newly created WWF (now WWE) Hall of Fame in 1993, posthumously honoring his legendary career.

What was André the Giant's most famous wrestling match?

André the Giant's most famous wrestling match is widely considered to be his main event bout against Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania III in 1987, which drew over 93,000 fans.

Did André the Giant ever win a world championship?

Yes, André the Giant won the WWF Championship by defeating Hulk Hogan on the first episode of NBC's "The Main Event" in February 1988. However, his reign was short-lived as the title was vacated shortly after due to a controversial attempt to sell it to Ted DiBiase.

What other famous roles did André the Giant have outside of wrestling?

Outside of wrestling, André the Giant is most famously known for his role as Fezzik in the 1987 fantasy film "The Princess Bride." He also made several other television and film appearances throughout his career.