Tallest person ever

The current tallest person ever record is 8′ 11.1″, held by Robert Wadlow. Last checked October 9, 2026.

8′ 11.1″

Robert Wadlow

Alton, Illinois, USA

Holder: Robert Wadlow
Record: 8′ 11.1″
Metric: 2.72 m
Exact figure: 8 ft 11.1 in
Location: Alton, Illinois, USA
Last checked: October 9, 2026

How it was measured

Doctors last measured Robert Wadlow on June 27, 1940, 18 days before he died. He stood 8 feet 11.1 inches (2.72 m) tall. The evidence for his height is strong enough that medical history recognizes him as the tallest person on record.

About Robert Wadlow

Robert Pershing Wadlow was born on February 22, 1918, in Alton, Illinois. His great height came from gigantism, a condition caused by an enlarged pituitary gland that made too much growth hormone. He needed leg braces to walk, yet he joined many normal childhood activities. People called him the Gentle Giant for his kind nature and calm manner. He died on July 15, 1940, at age 22. Visitors in Alton can stand beside a life-size statue of him.

Comparison with other record holders

Wadlow passed John William "Bud" Rogan, who was listed at 267 cm. Sultan Kösen of Turkey is listed as the tallest living man at 8 ft 2.8 in (251 cm). That leaves him about 21 cm shorter than Wadlow's final height.