HBO has released a preview video for "Andre the Giant," a documentary about the legendary professional wrestler of the same name.
Andre the Giant started his career in the early 1960s and became largely popular beginning in the mid-1970s, with the 7'4" tall Frenchman's most famous match being his face off against Hulk Hogan in 1987 at Wrestlemania III. Unfortunately, Andre, whose real name was Andre Roussimoff, passed away in 1993 when he was only 46 years old and was inducted in the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Hall of Fame in the same year.
The documentary has been rumored for several years, but was only confirmed in February of this year and is being produced by HBO with famed sports analyst Bill Simmons heading the project assisted by the WWE. "Andre the Giant" has no specific release date as of writing, but is expected to air by April 2018 on HBO.
Earlier this month, ESPN aired "The Nature Boy," a documentary about another legendary professional wrestler, Ric Flair. It was the first among almost 100 documentaries to deal with professional wrestling in the "30 for 30" series created by Simmons in association with WWE and his website, The Ringer. Jason Hehir, the director of numerous "30 for 30" installments has been listed as one of the directors for "Andre the Giant."
Aside from his famed bout against Hogan, Andre was also known for his prodigious drinking. He had also appeared on the romantic fantasy adventure comedy film "The Princess Bride" as the gentle giant Fezzik in 1987.
As for WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon, he released a statement with regards to Andre when the documentary was announced back in February.
"For more than 20 years, Andre the Giant's larger than life personality and unique charisma captured the imagination of fans around the world," McMahon said. "I will always value our friendship, and am proud to tell the story of the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.'"
