HBO looks to further endear itself to professional wrestling fans as one of the sport’s most iconic figures is set to the be the subject of a new documentary.
On Monday, the premium network revealed via press release that the Bill Simmons Media Group will produce ANDRE THE GIANT, a documentary film chronicling the life of the WWE star beginning with his childhood in France.
“For more than 20 years, Andre the Giant’s larger than life personality and unique charisma captured the imagination of fans around the world,” said WWE Chairman & CEO Vince McMahon. “I will always value our friendship, and am proud to tell the story of the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’.”
“We always hear about unicorns these days – Andre was the ultimate unicorn. He’s a true legend. Everyone who ever crossed paths with him has an Andre story – and usually four or five. I’m delighted to join forces with Jason Hehir and WWE so we can capture Andre’s amazing story once and for all.”
The gentle giant legally known as André René Roussimoff was born in France and began wresting at the age of 17 before connecting with Vince McMahon Sr. in 1970 and becoming a star as part of the World Wrestling Federation (aka WWE).
Roussimoff succumbed to congestive heart failure in January of 1993.