Jean Christensen’s name may not be as widely recognized as her legendary partner, Andre the Giant, but her life and influence in professional wrestling and beyond deserve attention. A towering presence herself at 6 feet 4 inches, Jean was more than just a partner to one of wrestling’s most iconic figures — she was a model, a skilled public relations professional, and a dedicated mother.
Early Life and Heritage
Jean Christensen was born on August 15, 1949, in Minnesota, United States, to parents Nels Peter and Paula Gantriis. Proud of her Danish heritage, she grew up in a family that valued hard work and determination. Her height and striking features made her a natural fit for the modeling industry, a career path she would pursue in the early 1970s before transitioning into the wrestling world.
Career in Modeling and Wrestling Public Relations
Jean’s early career in modeling gave her experience in public image and presentation, skills that would prove invaluable when she moved into wrestling public relations. At the time, professional wrestling was gaining momentum as a major entertainment industry, and PR professionals played a key role in building the personas of wrestling stars. Jean’s professionalism and insight earned her respect among her peers, and it was through this work that she would eventually cross paths with Andre the Giant.
Meeting Andre the Giant
Jean and Andre first met in the early 1970s through their professional involvement in wrestling. Andre, then wrestling internationally and known as “Beast Roussimoff” in Japan, was already a rising star. While their initial meeting was professional, over time the two developed a personal connection.
Although they never married, their relationship grew into a deep and lasting bond. In 1979, Jean gave birth to their daughter, Robin Christensen-Roussimoff.
Motherhood and Challenges in the Relationship
The couple’s relationship faced challenges, primarily due to Andre’s demanding wrestling career, which required constant travel across the globe. The distance made it difficult to maintain a traditional family life, and eventually, the relationship ended.
Initially, Andre did not acknowledge Robin as his daughter, which led to a paternity test. Once the test confirmed their biological connection, Jean received child support for Robin — starting at $750 per month and later increasing to $1,000. While the financial support helped, Jean largely raised Robin on her own in Seattle, Washington, providing her with stability despite the absence of her father for much of her childhood.
Robin Christensen-Roussimoff’s Life and Legacy Work
Robin inherited a portion of her father’s estate after his passing in 1993 and has carried forward both of her parents’ legacies. She has occasionally been involved in wrestling-related events and served as a consultant for the film Andre the Giant: Closer to Heaven. In 2018, she appeared in HBO’s documentary Andre the Giant, sharing personal insights into her father’s life and career. As of 2024, Robin’s net worth is estimated between $5 million and $10 million, reflecting her inheritance and continued involvement in projects honoring her father.
Jean Christensen’s Later Years and Passing
Jean continued to work in modeling and wrestling PR after her separation from Andre. Her career, combined with her dedication as a single mother, defined much of her adult life. At the time of her passing in 2008 at the age of 74, her net worth was estimated to be over $100,000 — a modest sum built through years of professional work in two demanding industries.
Despite living much of her life away from the public spotlight, Jean’s contributions to wrestling and her role in shaping her daughter’s life left a lasting mark.
Influence in the Wrestling Industry
While Andre the Giant’s fame often overshadowed those around him, Jean’s behind-the-scenes role in wrestling was significant. As a PR professional, she understood how to present talent to the media and fans, an essential skill during a time when wrestling personalities relied heavily on public image. Her work helped bridge the gap between wrestlers and the public, shaping how stars like Andre were perceived.
Remembering Jean Christensen
Jean Christensen’s story is one of quiet strength. She navigated the complexities of being connected to one of the most famous wrestlers in history while maintaining her own career and raising a child largely on her own. She balanced professional responsibilities with personal ones, showing resilience in the face of challenges.
Her life serves as a reminder that the partners and family members of public figures often contribute in unseen but meaningful ways. Jean’s legacy is reflected not only in her contributions to the wrestling industry but also in the life of her daughter, who continues to honor both of her parents’ memories.
Though she never sought fame for herself, Jean Christensen played a pivotal role in the life of a sports legend and in the upbringing of their daughter. Her story adds a human dimension to the mythic image of Andre the Giant, revealing the personal bonds and sacrifices behind the scenes of wrestling history.