Jóhann Kristinn Pétursson, better known as “The Viking Giant,” was an Icelandic circus performer and actor who lived from 1913 to 1984. His remarkable height and amiable personality made him a celebrated figure in the world of sideshows and entertainment.
Born in Dalvík, Iceland, on February 9, 1913, Jóhann’s early life was completely normal until he experienced an incredible growth spurt around the age of 15. While his family—he was the third of nine children—was of average size, Jóhann's body continued to grow at an extraordinary rate. By the time he was 20, he stood at 7 feet 8 inches (2.34 meters) tall. This height, while a source of fame later in life, also presented challenges. Despite being physically strong in his teens, he reportedly began to experience walking difficulties as he grew.
Jóhann found it difficult to find traditional work in his hometown due to his size. Recognizing his unique stature as a potential asset, he embarked on a career in entertainment. He left Iceland in 1934 and began exhibiting himself in Denmark and other European music halls. For a time, he performed an act with two dwarves, providing a humorous contrast in scale.
When World War II broke out, he found himself stranded in Copenhagen, where he worked in a shipyard until the war’s end. After the war, he resumed his touring career and was eventually discovered by John Ringling of the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
In 1948, Jóhann moved to the United States to join the circus. He initially performed in a traditional top hat and tails, but his career truly took off after he adopted the persona of “The Viking Giant.” Dressed in a Viking-themed costume, he became a hugely popular attraction, often billed as the Icelandic Giant.
Jóhann was not only a showman but also a savvy businessman. After a few years with the Ringling Brothers, he went into business for himself, creating a “Single-O” show where he was the sole attraction. This move proved very successful, and he reportedly saved a significant amount of money.
Jóhann also appeared in a few films, most notably as a giant caveman in the 1950 film Prehistoric Women and a small role in the 1980 film Carny.
In the 1960s, he retired to Gibsonton, Florida, a well-known community for sideshow and carnival performers. Even in retirement, he occasionally made appearances, including an event at the Smithsonian in 1973. Throughout his life, he was known for his kind and gentle personality. He was particularly loved by children, who he would happily hoist onto his shoulders.
Jóhann Kristinn Pétursson, the Viking Giant, died in 1984 at the age of 71, but his legacy as a prominent and beloved figure in the history of sideshows endures. He was inducted into Coney Island USA’s Sideshow Hall of Fame in 2015.
