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ELLERBE, N.C. – Andre The Giant, the legendary wrestling icon known for his immense stature and gentle demeanor, is being commemorated with a new roadside marker in Ellerbe, North Carolina, a town he proudly called home.
The dedication ceremony for the marker is scheduled for Thursday in Ellerbe, a small community of around 1,000 residents. Andre Rene Roussimoff, better known as Andre The Giant, lived on a ranch just outside this town, embracing the rural lifestyle of the area.
Standing an impressive 7-foot-4 and weighing 520 pounds during his wrestling prime in the 1970s and 1980s, Andre captivated audiences as both a formidable competitor and a beloved figure. His legendary match against Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania III in 1987 marked a pivotal moment for professional wrestling, propelling the WWE into national prominence.
That same year, Andre transitioned to film, portraying the gentle giant Fezzik in the cult classic “The Princess Bride.” His character’s kindness and memorable rhymes endeared him to a whole new generation of fans.
Originally from France, Roussimoff developed a deep affection for the American South as he toured and competed, eventually purchasing his North Carolina ranch about 60 miles east of Charlotte, where he raised cattle and became an integral member of the local community. In 1990, he even lent his voice to public service announcements opposing a nearby radioactive landfill, demonstrating his commitment to the area. His enormous size-26 cowboy boots are now preserved in a local museum as a testament to his legacy.
Andre The Giant passed away in 1993 at age 46 while visiting France for his father’s funeral. Although a service was held there, his ashes were scattered at his cherished North Carolina ranch, symbolizing his lasting connection to the place he called home.
The new marker, located at the intersection of NC Highway 72 and Old NC Highway 220, simply reads:
“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 tribute ensures that Andre’s remarkable life and enduring impact on both wrestling and the Ellerbe community will not be forgotten.