André the Giant was one of the most iconic figures in wrestling history. Standing over seven feet tall and weighing more than 500 pounds, he became known as The Eighth Wonder of the World. But his story goes far beyond size — André was also a Hollywood actor, a gentle giant off-screen, and a beloved personality worldwide.
Let’s explore his height, family, cause of death, career, and all the mind-blowing facts that made him unforgettable.
André the Giant Biography
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | André René Roussimoff |
| Birth Date | May 19, 1946 |
| Birthplace | Coulommiers, France |
| Nationality | French |
| Occupation | Wrestler, Actor |
| Nickname | The Eighth Wonder of the World |
| Died | January 27, 1993 (aged 46) |
Born in France, André rose to global fame through WWF wrestling and his memorable role in The Princess Bride. Despite physical challenges due to acromegaly, he lived a bold and unforgettable life.
André the Giant Height
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 7 feet 4 inches |
| Height (cm) | 224 cm |
How Tall Was André the Giant?
André was billed at 7 feet 4 inches, though some say his real height was closer to 7’2″. Regardless, he towered over opponents, actors, and everyone he met.
How Big Was André the Giant?
| Attribute | Size/Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 7’4″ (224 cm) |
| Weight | 520–600+ lbs (236–272+ kg) |
| Shoe Size | US 24 (approx.) |
| Hand Span | Nearly 12 inches from base to tip |
André wasn’t just tall — he was massive in every sense. His hands could cover a person’s entire face, and his boots were custom-made because regular sizes didn’t fit.
André the Giant Hand
| Feature | Measurement/Description |
|---|---|
| Hand Size | Over 11 inches from palm to tip |
| Grip Power | Incredibly strong — could crush cans easily |
| Notable | One handshake could engulf both of yours |
His hands were so big that everyday objects looked tiny in his grip — one of the reasons fans found him so fascinating.
André the Giant Daughter
| Name | Robin Christensen-Roussimoff |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1979 |
| Relationship | Estranged but acknowledged |
| Occupation | Public appearances, wrestling events |
André had one daughter, Robin, whom he rarely saw due to his intense travel schedule and health issues. She continues to represent his legacy at various events.
André the Giant Cause of Death
| Date of Death | January 27, 1993 |
| Place | Paris, France |
| Cause | Congestive heart failure |
How Did André the Giant Die?
He died in his sleep of congestive heart failure, shortly after attending his father’s funeral in France. He was just 46 years old. His death shocked the wrestling world and left fans mourning the gentle giant.
André the Giant Beer Can
| Fun Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Record | Allegedly drank 119 beers in one sitting |
| Size Comparison | Beer cans looked like mini soda cans in his hands |
| Popular Image | André holding a regular-sized can — it looks tiny |
One of André’s most legendary tales is how he could drink dozens of beers in one night. His beer-drinking stories are now part of wrestling folklore.
André the Giant Net Worth
| At Time of Death | Estimated ~$5–10 million (adjusted for inflation) |
|---|---|
| Main Earnings | WWF matches, acting roles, merchandise |
Despite his early passing, André lived a successful career in both wrestling and Hollywood, securing a solid fortune for his time.
André the Giant in Movies
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1987 | The Princess Bride | Fezzik |
| 1984 | Micki + Maude | Wrestler (Cameo) |
| TV | The Six Million Dollar Man, The Greatest American Hero | Bigfoot & other roles |
His most iconic movie role was as the gentle giant Fezzik, winning hearts around the world.
Wrestling Career Highlights
| Organization | Accomplishments |
|---|---|
| WWF | 15-year undefeated streak |
| WrestleMania | Historic match vs. Hulk Hogan in 1987 |
| Style | Power-based, storytelling legend |
André’s most famous moment was at WrestleMania III, where he faced Hulk Hogan in one of the most-watched matches in wrestling history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How tall was André the Giant really?
He was billed at 7 feet 4 inches, though some reports suggest closer to 7’2″.
Q: Did André the Giant have any children?
Yes, he had a daughter named Robin Christensen-Roussimoff.
Q: How did André the Giant die?
He died of congestive heart failure in 1993, while in France.
Q: What was his beer-drinking record?
He was rumored to have drunk over 100 beers in one sitting!
Q: Was André the Giant in any movies?
Yes, most famously in The Princess Bride as Fezzik.
Q: How much did André the Giant weigh?
At his peak, he weighed between 520–600 pounds.
Final Words
André the Giant was more than a wrestler — he was a cultural icon. From his towering height and massive hands to his kind heart and historic career, André left a mark few can match. His story is one of talent, pain, power, and legacy. Even decades after his passing, the world still celebrates the Eighth Wonder of the World.
