Matthew McGrory (May 17, 1973 – August 9, 2005) was an American actor, known for his great height.

Early life

McGrory was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania. He studied pre-law at Widener University. He also studied Criminal Justice at West Chester University. McGrory grew to the height of 7 ft 6 in (2.29 m) and had size 29½ shoes. He was over five feet (1.5 m) tall when he graduated from kindergarten.

Career

McGrory's large size led to appearances on The Howard Stern Show beginning in December 1996 with the nickname "Big Foot", as a member of Stern's Wack Pack. He also appeared on Oprah Winfrey's daytime talk show and in music videos including Iron Maiden's "The Wicker Man" and the 1999 Marilyn Manson "Coma White" (and God is in the TV VHS cover). He can also be seen in Blondie's video for their 2003 hit "Good Boys."

Due to his height and deep voice, he was in demand to play roles in movies cast as a giant – he did so in films such as Bubble Boy (2001), Big Fish (2003), House of 1000 Corpses (2003) and The Devil's Rejects (2005). Television appearances included Malcolm in the Middle, Charmed, and Carnivàle. The Guinness Book of World Records awarded him the titles of the tallest actor, the largest toe, and the world's largest feet not caused by elephantiasis – size 29½.

At the time of his death he was playing André the Giant in a film about the wrestler's life.

Death

He lived in Sherman Oaks, California, with his girlfriend Melissa. On August 9, 2005, McGrory died at age 32 of natural causes (he was never diagnosed as having gigantism). Rob Zombie's film The Devil's Rejects was dedicated to him.