John Aasen
Actor
About John Aasen
John Aasen was a remarkable figure in the silent film era, primarily known for his extraordinary height which made him one of the tallest actors in cinematic history. Born in Minneapolis to Norwegian immigrants, Aasen's physical stature was a result of gigantism, a condition that defined both his personal life and professional career. He was discovered by the film industry after a nationwide search to replace the giant George Auger, who had passed away just before filming began on a major project. Aasen made his spectacular film debut as 'Colosso' in the 1923 Harold Lloyd comedy 'Why Worry?', which catapulted him into the spotlight as a unique character actor. Throughout the 1920s and early 1930s, he appeared in several films, often cast as a gentle giant or a formidable physical presence in comedies and dramas alike. Despite his fame, his health was often fragile due to his condition, and he spent much of his later years working in sideshows and circuses when film roles became scarce. He passed away at the age of 48 in California, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most visually striking performers of the early 20th century.
The Craft
On Screen
Aasen's acting style was defined by his immense physical presence and his ability to play both menacing and sympathetic characters. In comedies, he often utilized a 'gentle giant' persona, using his size for slapstick contrast against smaller leads like Harold Lloyd or Charley Chase. His performances relied heavily on pantomime and physical expression, which were essential skills in the silent era, particularly for a performer whose primary appeal was his visual scale.
Milestones
- Cast as the replacement for George Auger in Harold Lloyd's 'Why Worry?' (1923) after a massive talent search.
- Achieved international recognition for his role as Colosso, the 'wild hermit' with a toothache.
- Appeared in the Hal Roach short 'Long Fliv the King' (1926) alongside Charley Chase.
- Made a notable cameo in Tod Browning's cult classic 'Freaks' (1932).
- Inducted into the Guinness World Records in 1978 as one of the tallest actors ever recorded.
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized by Guinness World Records as one of the tallest actors in history.
- Subject of a permanent skeletal exhibit at Loma Linda University for medical study.
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
John Aasen represented the 'spectacle' era of early Hollywood, where physical uniqueness was a major box-office draw. His appearance in 'Why Worry?' remains one of the most iconic pairings of a 'little man' and 'giant' in silent comedy, influencing the visual language of physical comedy for decades. He was a bridge between the world of the traveling sideshow and the emerging prestige of the Hollywood motion picture industry.
Lasting Legacy
Aasen's legacy is preserved through his appearances in classic silent comedies that are still studied by film historians today. His physical remains were donated to science, and his skeleton at Loma Linda University has provided valuable insights into the study of gigantism. He remains a symbol of the diverse and often unusual performers who helped build the foundation of the studio system.
Who They Inspired
He influenced the casting of 'giant' characters in later films, setting a precedent for how extremely tall actors could be integrated into narrative cinema rather than just being used as static background extras.
Off Screen
John Aasen was born to Kristi Danielsen, a Norwegian woman who was also exceptionally tall. He grew up in various parts of the Midwest, including Iowa and North Dakota, where his mother ran a restaurant. Aasen was a dedicated Freemason, reaching the degree of Master Mason at Highland Park Lodge No. 382 in Los Angeles in 1924. His life was marked by the challenges of his height, which was medically measured at over 7 feet, though promotional materials often claimed he was nearly 9 feet tall.
Education
Attended public school in Sheyenne, North Dakota.
Did You Know?
- His mother was also a giant, reportedly standing over 6 feet tall.
- He was a Master Mason in the Highland Park Lodge in Los Angeles.
- His true height was a subject of intense debate, with claims ranging from 7'2" to 8'9".
- He was a replacement for the 'Cardiff Giant' George Auger, who died the day before filming 'Why Worry?'.
- His skeleton was measured in 2008 and confirmed to be 7 feet 2.4 inches tall.
- He worked for Barnum & Bailey Circus before and after his peak film years.
- He died of pneumonia, a common complication for individuals with his condition at the time.
In Their Own Words
I am not a freak; I am just a big man who wants to do a big job in a big way. (Attributed to his promotional interviews during the 1920s)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was John Aasen?
John Aasen was a famous American silent film actor and sideshow performer known for his extreme height. He is best remembered for his role as Colosso in the 1923 Harold Lloyd film 'Why Worry?'.
How tall was John Aasen really?
While promotional materials claimed he was nearly 9 feet tall, medical measurements of his skeleton later confirmed his height was approximately 7 feet 2.4 inches.
What was John Aasen's most famous movie?
His most famous work is the 1923 comedy 'Why Worry?', where he played a giant prisoner who becomes the loyal companion of Harold Lloyd's character.
Did John Aasen appear in the movie 'Freaks'?
Yes, John Aasen had an uncredited cameo appearance as a giant in Tod Browning's 1932 cult classic 'Freaks'.
What caused John Aasen's death?
John Aasen died at the age of 48 from pneumonia, which was a frequent health complication for those suffering from gigantism during that era.
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Films
1 film
