“From Page to Screen: How André the Giant Brought Fezzik to Life” explores the legendary casting and performance of André the Giant (born André René Roussimoff) as the lovable, rhyming giant Fezzik in the 1987 classic film, The Princess Bride. Author William Goldman wrote both the original 1973 novel and the screenplay, explicitly envisioning André for the role from the very beginning. Despite immense physical challenges, André’s real-life warmth and gentle nature permanently defined the beloved character. The Perfect Casting Vision
The Original Muse: While watching a wrestling match in the 1970s, author William Goldman saw the 7’4”, 500-pound André and immediately declared him the definitive Fezzik.
The Back-up Plan: Because early attempts to make the movie stalled and André’s schedule was packed, a then-unknown Arnold Schwarzenegger was briefly considered for the role. By the time director Rob Reiner secured funding over a decade later, Schwarzenegger was too expensive, clearing the path for André.
Securing the Giant: Casting director Jane Jenkins and Rob Reiner literally walked out of an audition room to catch a flight to Paris just to meet André after his wrestling schedule freed up. Overcoming Physical Limitations Andre the Giant in the movie The Princess Bride – Facebook
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