CELEBRITY
Meet Jean Christensen: Everything You Need to Know About André the Giant’s Wife
Quick bio
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jean Christensen |
| Birth Date | August 15, 1949 |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Profession | Former Model, WWE PR Representative |
| Relationship | Late Andre the Giant (Husband) |
| Marriage | United States (Not officially registered) |
| Daughter | Robin Christensen (Professional Wrestler) |
| Notable Features | Former model, recognized WWE PR representative |
| Impact | Substantial fan following in the wrestling community |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Religion | Christian |
| Net Worth | Estimated to exceed $100,000 |
Early Life and Background
Born on August 15, 1949, in Minnesota, Jean Christensen carried a rich Danish heritage, reflected in her maiden name, Gantriis, a name that symbolizes knowledge, leadership, and fairness. These characteristics were evident throughout her life and career.
Jean’s professional journey began in the 1970s as a model, where she was celebrated for her grace, elegance, and confidence. Her success in the fashion industry ultimately paved the way for her transition into the wrestling world, where she took on a groundbreaking role as a public relations representative—an impressive feat in a male-dominated industry.
How Old Is Jean Christensen?
Jean Christensen was born on August 15, 1949. If she were alive today in 2024, she would be 75 years old.
Professional Journey in Wrestling
Jean Christensen’s entry into the wrestling industry was anything but conventional. She took on an essential role in public relations, promoting wrestling events, managing media relations, and shaping the public image of wrestling stars. Her ability to navigate the chaotic and often intense wrestling scene helped bring a sense of organization and professionalism to an industry that was still evolving.
It was during her public relations work that she first crossed paths with Andre the Giant, marking the beginning of both a professional collaboration and a personal romance.
Jean’s contributions to wrestling went beyond her relationship with Andre. She was a trailblazer for women in sports entertainment, proving that women could hold influential roles behind the scenes in an industry that had long been dominated by men.
Meeting Andre the Giant
Jean Christensen’s life changed forever in 1974 when she met Andre the Giant—born André René Roussimoff—at a wrestling PR event. Their initial meetings were strictly professional, but over time, their relationship deepened into something more personal and meaningful.
Standing at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches, Jean was one of the few women who could match Andre’s towering presence in stature. However, it was their emotional connection, shared values, and mutual respect that truly brought them together.
Despite the challenges of Andre’s demanding career and worldwide fame, their relationship was filled with genuine love and admiration, showing a softer, more human side to the larger-than-life wrestling star.
Who Is Andre the Giant?
Andre the Giant, born André René Roussimoff on May 19, 1946, in Coulommiers, France, was one of the most legendary figures in professional wrestling. Known as “The Eighth Wonder of the World,” his 7-foot-4-inch, 500-pound frame made him a dominant force in the ring.
Beyond wrestling, Andre also gained global recognition as an actor, most notably for his role in the classic film “The Princess Bride”. Despite his fame and success, he struggled with acromegaly, a condition that caused excessive growth and contributed to his premature passing in 1993.
His legacy in both wrestling and entertainment remains unparalleled, and his impact on pop culture continues to inspire fans worldwide.
The Union of Jean Christensen and Andre the Giant
The marriage between Jean Christensen and Andre the Giant was as unique as the larger-than-life persona Andre carried inside the wrestling ring. While their marriage was never officially registered in the United States, it was widely recognized by fans, media, and the wrestling community.
Their relationship was filled with deep affection, but also significant challenges. One of the earliest and most publicized issues they faced was the dispute over the paternity of their daughter, Robin Christensen-Roussimoff. Legal battles ensued, leading to a required blood test to confirm Andre’s fatherhood.
Beyond this, financial struggles surfaced, particularly in support-related disputes. Despite these difficulties, their relationship also had moments of strong connection and mutual support, lasting until Andre’s passing in 1993. Their union left a lasting imprint on Robin’s life and the wrestling world, forever tying Jean’s name to one of the sport’s most legendary figures.
His Daughter: Robin Christensen-Roussimoff
Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, born on October 17, 1979, is the only daughter of wrestling icon Andre the Giant and Jean Christensen. She grew up under the shadow of her father’s immense legacy and later sought to carve her own path in professional wrestling.
Robin’s early life was marked by questions regarding her paternity, which were later legally confirmed through a court-ordered blood test. Despite being the daughter of a wrestling legend, Robin has maintained a low public profile, choosing to keep much of her personal life private.
Though she never achieved the same level of fame as her father, Robin continues to honor his legacy by representing his estate and making occasional appearances at wrestling events and fan conventions.
Legacy in Wrestling
Known as “The Eighth Wonder of the World,” Andre the Giant left an unforgettable mark on professional wrestling, with Jean playing a crucial role in his career.
Jean stood beside Andre through some of his most legendary battles, including his iconic match against Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania 3, which remains one of the most famous moments in wrestling history.
As a public relations professional, Jean helped shape Andre’s image and managed aspects of his media relations and promotional appearances. Her behind-the-scenes efforts helped elevate not only Andre’s career but also the wrestling industry’s public perception, making her an influential figure in sports entertainment.
Later Years and Impact
After Andre’s passing in 1993, Jean Christensen lived a relatively private life until her own passing in 2008. Though she stepped away from the wrestling industry, her impact and legacy remained.
Jean’s story is not only about her marriage to one of wrestling’s greatest icons but also about her own contributions to the sport. From her work in public relations to her role as a mother and supporter of wrestling talent, she left behind a meaningful and lasting influence.
Her name continues to be remembered through her daughter Robin and the many lives she touched in the wrestling world.
Andre & Jean Christensen’s Net Worth
While both Jean Christensen and Andre the Giant played significant roles in wrestling, their financial legacies were quite different.
- Jean Christensen, known for her career as a model and WWE PR representative, had an estimated net worth exceeding $100,000, reflecting her contributions to the promotional and business side of wrestling.
- Andre the Giant, on the other hand, built an impressive fortune through his wrestling career, film appearances, and endorsements. By the time of his death in 1993, his net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Andre’s unique presence and widespread appeal allowed him to achieve financial success far beyond that of many of his wrestling peers, solidifying his status as a global icon.
Conclusion
Jean Christensen’s life was more than just a connection to Andre the Giant—it was a story of resilience, influence, and quiet strength.
Her career in modeling and wrestling PR, along with her role as Andre’s wife and Robin’s mother, highlights her ability to navigate the complexities of fame and personal life with grace and determination.
Her contributions to wrestling’s promotional side, as well as her influence on Andre’s career, make her an important yet often overlooked figure in wrestling history.
Jean’s story is a testament to the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes, shaping the sports and entertainment landscapes that fans around the world cherish.
FAQs About Jean Christensen and Andre the Giant
Who was Jean Christensen?
Jean Christensen was a former model and WWE public relations representative, best known as the wife of wrestling legend Andre the Giant. Her work in wrestling PR helped promote major events and maintain wrestler-public interactions.
How did Jean Christensen meet Andre the Giant?
Jean met Andre in 1974 while working in public relations for wrestling. What started as a professional connection soon developed into a deep personal relationship.
Did Jean Christensen and Andre the Giant have any children?
Yes, they had one daughter, Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, who later pursued a career in wrestling and continues to preserve her father’s legacy.
Was Jean and Andre’s marriage legally recognized?
No, their marriage was never officially registered in the United States, but it was publicly acknowledged and widely recognized within the wrestling community.
What challenges did Jean and Andre’s relationship face?
Their relationship encountered several obstacles, including:
- Disputes over their daughter’s paternity, which led to legal battles and a required blood test.
- Financial disputes and support-related conflicts.
- Andre’s health issues due to gigantism and acromegaly, which affected their personal life.
What was Jean Christensen’s impact on wrestling?
Beyond being Andre’s wife, Jean played a key role as a WWE PR representative, helping to promote events, manage wrestler publicity, and enhance wrestling’s public image.
How does their legacy continue today?
Their legacy lives on through their daughter, Robin, as well as the lasting impact of Andre’s legendary career in both wrestling and entertainment. Jean’s contributions to wrestling PR continue to be acknowledged as part of the sport’s history.