Just how tall was the Viking Giant? I'm Colton from Ripley's.com and this is your Weird Minute. Born in 1913 Iceland, Johan Peterson would become known around the world as the Viking Giant. The third of nine children, only Johan would grow to an immense height.
He grew at an average rate at first, but his size exploded at age 15. By age 17 he was big and strong enough to lift a truck, and by 20 he was the tallest man in Iceland. Making his way into the circus life, he gained his Viking giant nickname. Though famous for wearing Viking regalia, he also liked to wear suits finely tailored to fit his mammoth frame. Immensely popular, Peterson is well remembered thanks to his many tours, appearances in movies, and his charismatic personality.
Unlike many other giants, it is believed the Viking did not suffer from a pituitary disorder, affording him a far longer life than other giants. Though posters would claim he was 8 foot 8, it was likely he was only ever 7 feet 8 inches tall.
still taller than any athlete who have ever participated in the NBA. For an up-close look at a gargantuan-sized ring belonging to the Viking giant, visit Ripley's.com. Rate the Weird Minute if you haven't already, and tune in tomorrow for another Minute of Odd.