In the realm of towering figures, Suleiman Ali Nashnush stands out as an 8-footer, leaving a legacy not only as a Libyan basketball player but also as an actor.
Born in Libya in 1943, precisely in Tripoli’s Ben Ashour street, Nashnush’s exceptional height became apparent early on. To address his abnormal growth, he underwent surgery in Rome in 1962, marking the beginning of a journey that would lead him to remarkable achievements.
Nashnush showcased his prowess on the basketball court, contributing his skills to teams like Al-Ittihad and later Al-Wahda in Tripoli. Beyond the basketball arena, he held the surprising distinction of possessing a driver’s license, adept at handling cars, motorcycles, and even bicycles.
Adding a cinematic flair to his multi-faceted life, Nashnush secured a small role in Federico Fellini’s film “Fellini Satyricon.” Here, he played the character of Tryphaena’s attendant, demonstrating his versatility beyond the sports domain.
Tragically, Suleiman Ali Nashnush met his demise on February 25, 1991, while visiting Latvia. The cause of death was suspected to be a heart attack, marking the end of an extraordinary journey.
However, the tale of Nashnush’s height is shrouded in uncertainty. While Guinness World Records has long listed him at a towering 8 feet 0.4 inches (2.45 m), skepticism surrounds the authenticity of this claim. The recorded height, captured in pictures and videos when he was just 19 years old, raises questions about its accuracy. Nashnush’s story, therefore, remains a captivating enigma, challenging perceptions and leaving room for speculation in the realm of towering personalities.
Back to the tallest people ever.
