Biography
Andre the Giant (André René Roussimoff) was the defining giant of professional wrestling — at 7'4" and 520 lbs at his peak, he was the most physically imposing performer the sport has ever seen, and arguably the most globally recognizable wrestler in history before Hulk Hogan.
Andre toured the world for over two decades, appearing for virtually every major territory. His undefeated streak — legitimate or heavily protected depending on the territory — lasted roughly 15 years. The 1987 WWF Championship feud with Hogan, culminating at WrestleMania III in the Pontiac Silverdome before 93,000 fans, produced wrestling's most iconic visual: Hogan bodyslamming Andre.
Andre's later years saw him turn heel, managed by Ted DiBiase, in programs designed around his deteriorating health. His cooperation — performing through genuine pain and degenerative acromegaly — reflected his professionalism. Andre passed away in January 1993 and was the inaugural WWE Hall of Fame inductee. He was 46 years old.
Championships & Titles
Career Timeline
- 1966Professional debut in France — size and athletic background attract attention
- 1973WWF debut — begins years of regular appearances; undefeated streak grows
- 1980Recognized globally as wrestling's biggest star — literally and figuratively
- 1987WrestleMania III: bodyslam by Hulk Hogan before 93,000 in Pontiac — wrestling's most iconic moment
- 1988WWF Championship moment — pins Hogan in controversial Main Event TV match
- 1989Heel turn with Ted DiBiase; managed by Bobby Heenan — Heenan Family feud
- 1991Final significant WWF programming; health visibly declining
- 1993Passes away January 27 in Paris from congestive heart failure, age 46
FAQ
How tall was Andre the Giant?
Andre's billed height was 7'4" — his actual measured height varied by source, generally listed between 7'0" and 7'4" depending on the era. His acromegaly (abnormal growth) caused his size and ultimately contributed to his death.
Did Hulk Hogan really bodyslam Andre the Giant?
Yes — the bodyslam at WrestleMania III on March 29, 1987, is real. It was a legitimately difficult feat given Andre's size and weight at that point. Hogan has described it as physically the hardest thing he did in wrestling.
Did Andre the Giant ever lose?
Yes — Andre's undefeated streak was a promotional tool, not a literal record. He lost via DQ and other methods in various territories. His streak was eventually broken by Hulk Hogan in WWF's Main Event special in 1988.
When did Andre the Giant die?
Andre the Giant died on January 27, 1993, in Paris, France, from congestive heart failure. He was 46 years old and had been in Paris for his father's funeral. He was the inaugural WWE Hall of Fame inductee the same year.