ELLERBE, N.C.. (AP) — The legacy of wrestling legend Andre the Giant is celebrated as a roadside marker is unveiled in the quaint town of Ellerbe, North Carolina, where he found a second home. Born Andre Rene Roussimoff in France, he grew to become a household name in the wrestling world while captivating audiences with his unique charm in films.
This small community of around 1,000 residents remembers Roussimoff not only as a titan in the ring but also as a gentle soul whose roots in the region run deep. He lived on a ranch just outside of Ellerbe, where he raised cattle and formed lasting bonds with the local people.
Roussimoff's wrestling persona stood over 7-foot-4 and weighed an impressive 520 pounds during his tenure in the WWE in the 1970s and 1980s. He was famously known as an indomitable foe until he faced the equally iconic Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania III in 1987, a pivotal moment that brought professional wrestling into the mainstream spotlight.
After his wrestling days, Roussimoff showcased his acting skills in “The Princess Bride,” playing the lovable giant Fezzik, which further solidified his status as a pop culture icon.
Even after his passing in 1993, his impact on both wrestling and the community of Ellerbe is celebrated. The unveiling of the roadside marker serves not only as a tribute to his prominence in sports and entertainment but also acknowledges his role as an influencer in environmental and local issues.
Wrestler Vladimir Koloff, a close friend of Roussimoff, remarked on the importance of this recognition, stating, The world of professional wrestling has given us a larger than life icon. The marker, located at the intersection of NC Highway 73 and Old NC Highway 220, simply states, “Andre The Giant. 1946-1993. Actor and professional wrestler. Was born Andre Roussimoff. Known for role in The Princess Bride in 1987. Lived nearby.”
