He Was an Incredible Legendary Figure, Yet One Who Was Also In Pain

Andre the Giant is the most amazing and intriguing figure in pro wrestling history. To this day, he conjures up awe and admiration that no other grappler has likely ever matched. Finally, his real story will now be told, by insiders and contemporaries who knew him best.

Andre The Giant will debut on HBO on April 10, and below you can watch the first trailer for the upcoming documentary. HBO Sports, WWE, and the Bill Simmons Media Group are set to unveil this in-depth look at the "biggest celebrity" of his time, in more ways than one.

Longtime pro wrestling journalist Bill Apter, currently at 1wrestling.com, shared his insights on his frequent dealings with Andre in his prime. "Andre was the most interesting physical athlete in a sport made up of high fliers and technical wrestlers. Even at his size he could handle the attack of any style."

"On the personal end, if he liked you, he was your friend for life," Apter said, "If he didn't like you, then you had to be concerned. But he always treated me like his best friend even though I saw him just several times a year. The best thing about him is he adored meeting children and making them laugh."

The First Trailer for HBO's Andre The Giant

Bill Apter and Andre the Giant circa 1985 - more stories and photos from the Apter archives available here. 

HBO is also currently profiling tennis legend Margaret Court.