Most people remember André the Giant as the larger-than-life wrestling icon and beloved actor from The Princess Bride. But behind the spotlight stood Jean Christensen, the woman who shared his most intimate world, gave him his only child, and quietly shaped parts of his story that few ever saw.
Who is Jean Christensen? She was a former fashion model turned WWE public relations professional, longtime partner of André René Roussimoff (better known as André the Giant), and mother to their daughter Robin Christensen-Roussimoff. In this detailed guide, you’ll discover her background, the real nature of her relationship with André, jean christensen height, and the five fascinating truths that make her story far more compelling than the “wife of André the Giant” label suggests.
Who Is Jean Christensen?
Jean Christensen entered the public eye mainly through her connection to André the Giant, but she was much more than “André the Giant’s partner.” Born in Minnesota with Danish roots, she built a career first as a fashion model in the early 1970s and later as a respected public relations representative in the wrestling industry.
She met André around 1972–1974 while working in wrestling promotions. Their relationship lasted for years, though it was never a traditional marriage. Together they welcomed daughter Robin in 1979. Jean raised Robin largely on her own while André traveled the world for wrestling and acting.
She chose privacy over publicity, even as André became a global superstar. This choice defined her life and continues to make her story intriguing today.
Jean Christensen Age and Early Life
Jean Christensen was born on August 15, 1949, in Minnesota. She passed away in 2008 at the age of 59. That makes jean christensen age at death 59 years old.
Growing up in the Midwest with strong Danish heritage gave her a grounded perspective. She entered modeling in the early 1970s, drawn to the glamour and creativity of the fashion world. Her tall, striking presence helped her stand out on runways and in photoshoots.
By the early 1970s, she shifted into wrestling public relations. This move placed her right in the heart of the booming territorial wrestling scene, where she handled media, promotions, and talent relations. Her communication skills and professional demeanor made her a natural fit.
How Jean Met André the Giant
Jean Christensen first crossed paths with André René Roussimoff in the early 1970s through her work in wrestling promotions. André, already a rising star known as André the Giant, stood 7 feet 4 inches tall and weighed over 500 pounds due to acromegaly.
Their connection grew naturally in the close-knit wrestling community. Jean worked behind the scenes while André performed in the ring. What started as a professional acquaintance soon turned personal.
They began dating around 1974. The relationship had its ups and downs because of André’s intense travel schedule, but they stayed bonded for nearly two decades.
Jean Christensen and André the Giant
Many fans still search for “jean christensen andre the giant wife” or ask if they were married. The truth is clear: Jean Christensen and André the Giant were never legally married.
They shared a long-term romantic relationship and lived together at times, with some reports of a private ceremony in Canada that was never officially registered in the United States. André himself stated he never married. Their bond produced one child, but the relationship remained complicated due to his career demands and health issues.
Despite the challenges, Jean provided steady support. She understood the demands of his life and focused on creating stability for their family.
Jean Christensen Career
Jean started as a fashion model in the early 1970s, a time when modeling offered exciting opportunities for tall, confident women. She brought the same poise and professionalism to her role in wrestling public relations.
Working with promoters and talent, she helped shape how wrestling was presented to media and fans. This was during the transition from regional territories to the national expansion of what became WWE.
Her insider knowledge and relationships gave her unique perspective on the business. Many who worked with her described her as capable, discreet, and highly respected.
5 Fascinating Truths About Jean Christensen
Here are the five impressive truths that reveal the real woman behind the headlines.
1. She Built a Successful Career Before and Alongside André’s Fame Jean wasn’t just “André the Giant’s partner.” She had her own professional path as a model and then as a WWE PR professional. She thrived in two competitive industries and brought real skills to the wrestling world at a pivotal time.
2. She Became André’s Only Child’s Mother Against the Odds André believed his acromegaly made him infertile. When Jean became pregnant in the late 1970s, they confirmed paternity through testing. Robin’s birth in 1979 created their strongest lasting connection.
3. Their Relationship Was Never a Legal Marriage Despite rumors and incorrect reports calling her “andre the giant wife jean christensen,” they were never legally married. This fact surprises many fans but highlights how Jean valued substance over public labels.
4. She Chose Privacy in a Very Public World Jean kept an extremely low profile. She avoided the spotlight even as André starred in movies and headlined WrestleMania. Her decision protected her daughter and allowed the family a sense of normalcy.
5. She Raised Robin Mostly on Her Own While Supporting André’s Legacy After André’s death in 1993, Jean continued raising Robin and helped preserve his memory privately. Robin has spoken warmly about both parents and now safeguards her father’s estate and image.
Jean Christensen Height and Appearance
How tall was Jean Christensen? Multiple sources report jean christensen height as 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm). This made her exceptionally tall for a woman, especially in the 1970s and 1980s.
Her height complemented André’s towering 7’4″ frame perfectly. She reportedly enjoyed wearing heels and still looking up to him. Whether modeling or working ringside, her stature and confidence made her memorable.
Family Life
Jean gave birth to Robin Christensen-Roussimoff in 1979. André saw his daughter only a handful of times due to his schedule and health. Jean handled most of the parenting responsibilities.
Robin grew up primarily with her mother. She has described a distant but affectionate relationship with her father. After André’s passing, Jean continued to raise Robin in a grounded environment away from constant media attention.
The mother-daughter bond remained strong until Jean’s death in 2008. Robin now carries forward the family legacy.
Later Years, Death, and Legacy
Jean lived her final years quietly. She passed away in 2008 at age 59. Jean Christensen still alive searches often appear because her story remains tied to André’s enduring popularity.
Her legacy lives through her daughter Robin, who inherited André’s estate and protects his image. Jean showed that strength and grace don’t always need the spotlight.
FAQs
Who is Jean Christensen?
Jean Christensen was a former model and WWE public relations professional best known as the longtime partner of André the Giant and mother of his only child, Robin.
What was Jean Christensen age when she died?
She was born in 1949 and passed away in 2008 at the age of 59.
Was Jean Christensen married to André the Giant?
No. They had a long-term relationship and a daughter but were never legally married.
How tall was Jean Christensen?
Reports list her height at 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm).
Who is Jean Christensen daughter?
Her daughter is Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, born in 1979.
What did Jean Christensen do for a living?
She worked as a fashion model in the early 1970s and later as a public relations representative in professional wrestling.
Is Jean Christensen still alive?
No, she passed away in 2008.
Did Jean Christensen appear in wrestling?
She worked behind the scenes in PR rather than as a wrestler or on-screen talent.
What is the connection between Jean Christensen and André René Roussimoff?
They shared a romantic relationship from the mid-1970s until André’s death in 1993 and had one daughter together.
Where can I see Jean Christensen André the Giant wife photos?
A few historical images exist from wrestling events and private moments, though she kept a very low public profile.
Conclusion
Jean Christensen lived a remarkable life defined by quiet strength, professional success, and unwavering devotion to family. The five fascinating truths we explored show a woman who carved her own path while standing beside one of wrestling’s greatest legends.
She proved that real impact often happens away from the cameras. Her dedication to privacy, her successful career, and her role as a loving mother continue to inspire those who discover her story.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into Jean Christensen, check out our other legends, their families, and the untold stories behind the ring. Who would you like to read about next? Share your thoughts in the comments, we read and reply to every one.
