ELLERBE, N.C. (AP) — Andre The Giant, an iconic figure known for his imposing presence in the wrestling ring and his soft-spoken demeanor in films, is set to be commemorated with a roadside marker in Ellerbe, North Carolina, a town he cherished during his lifetime.
The unveiling ceremony for the marker is scheduled for Thursday in Ellerbe, a small community with a population of approximately 1,000 residents. Andre Rene Roussimoff, known professionally as Andre The Giant, settled in a ranch situated just outside this town in the mid-1980s.
During his wrestling career with the WWE in the 1970s and 1980s, Andre was billed as standing 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 meters) tall and weighing around 520 pounds (236 kilograms). These impressive statistics contributed to his portrayal as an indomitable villain in the wrestling world, where he became a household name.
One of the pivotal moments in Andre's career occurred in 1987 when he faced off against Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania III. This match not only showcased his wrestling prowess but also catapulted the then-regional wrestling promotion into a national entertainment phenomenon, transforming the landscape of professional wrestling forever.
Later that same year, Andre made a memorable appearance in the film industry, portraying the gentle giant Fezzik in The Princess Bride. This character, beloved by audiences, was known for his simplistic nature, often needing rhymes to recall his lines. His performance solidified his status beyond wrestling, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Though born in France, Roussimoff developed a deep affinity for the U.S. South during his wrestling tours. He bought a ranch in North Carolina, where he raised cattle and embraced a quieter rural lifestyle approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) from Charlotte. His presence in Ellerbe went beyond that of a celebrity; he became actively involved in the community, even collaborating on a campaign against a proposed low-level radioactive landfill in 1990. His contributions to local initiatives endeared him to residents.
Andre The Giant passed away in 1993 at the age of 46 while in France to attend his father's funeral. Although a service was held there, his ashes were later scattered at his cherished North Carolina ranch, a final resting place that reflected his love for the area.
The forthcoming roadside marker, located at the intersection of NC Highway 72 and Old NC Highway 220, succinctly honors his legacy. It contains the inscription: “Andre The Giant. 1946-1993. Actor and professional wrestler. Was born Andre Roussimoff. Known for role in The Princess Bride in 1987. Lived nearby.” This marker not only recognizes his accomplishments in both wrestling and film but also serves to remind future generations of his enduring impact on the community of Ellerbe.
