Biography - S11E07: Andre the Giant

Profiles the life of the legendary wrestler whose immense size and gentle spirit made him one of sports entertainment’s most iconic figures. The episode traces Andre’s childhood in a small French village, where early signs of gigantism set him apart, and follows his rise through European wrestling circuits before becoming a global superstar in the World Wrestling Federation. Biography highlights his unmatched presence in the ring, his rivalries—including the famed showdown with Hulk Hogan—and his crossover fame in mainstream culture. The program also examines the physical toll of acromegaly, documenting Andre’s declining health and the pain he endured while continuing to perform. With commentary from Vince McMahon, fellow wrestlers, and Andre’s family, the episode offers an intimate look at a man whose extraordinary stature brought both triumph and hardship. Ultimately, it presents a moving portrait of a gentle giant whose legacy endures long after his death in 1993.

Cast: Peter Graves