The spectacle-laden world of professional wrestling is bursting with larger-than-life personalities that echo through the ages, but few have the lasting resonance of Andre “The Giant” Roussimoff. The acclaimed “Eighth Wonder of the World” rose to global superstardom along with pro wrestling itself, from its independent early days to pop culture dominance in the 1980s. Today sees the release of Andre the Giant: Closer to Heaven, an authorized graphic novel biography from Lion Forge Comics which lavishly illustrates this journey in sepia-toned hues and sheds new light on the man behind the mythic persona.
“We started working with Robin on this biography of her dad a few years ago and it was the first licensing deal we did as a company,” said Lion Forge CEO David Steward II. “Being a longtime fan of wrestling and growing up watching Andre, we felt a special responsibility to get it right. And not just accurate, but right; a book that captures what made the man so special, with insight and reflection. It’s unlike any other sports bio I’ve seen out there.”
Written by Eisner Award-nominated Brandon M. Easton (Marvel’s Agent Carter, Thundercats) and illustrated by Denis Medri (Red Hood/Arsenal, Spider-Verse), Andre the Giant: Closer to Heaven reveals the back-room machinations of the early history of combat sports and the interior life of one of its most respected icons.
“I never thought I would see something like this graphic novel about my father happen,” Christensen-Roussimoff said. “But after reading the first draft and seeing how hard Brandon was working to make sure he told his story so honestly, I was — and still am — thrilled.”
Lion Forge Comics titles (including Andre the Giant: Closer to Heaven) are available on all digital platforms, and the print volume, produced with IDW Publishing, is available today everywhere books are sold.
About Lion Forge Comics
Lion Forge is a St. Louis-based transmedia studio with a focus on digital publishing. With both original and licensed titles, Lion Forge brings together the brightest talent to acquire and develop content and character franchises within the comic book, television, film, and interactive gaming industries. Lion Forge applies cinematic elements to each property to create compelling, story-driven experiences from start to finish, bringing unique entertainment experiences to both traditional and digital marketplaces. For more information, please visit lionforge.com or the Lion Forge Facebook and Twitter pages.
