Andre The Giant HBO Documentary: 14 Things We Learned

4. He Refused Medical Help For Acromegaly

The cause of Andre's immense size was a condition called acromegaly, a disorder of the pituitary gland which results in too much growth hormone being secreted.

An interview with Andre's former physician, Dr. Harris Yett, however reveals that Andre's condition could have actually been treated, but he refused treatment for fear it would affect the prosperity of his career.

Andre's The Princess Bride co-star Cary Elwes also stated that though the man's near-mythic tales of drinking are celebrated and laughed at, his excess was often a way to deal with the terrible pain acromegaly brought him.