Born and raised in Iceland, Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson has captivated global audiences through his remarkable strength, competitive achievements, and notable television appearances. Standing at an astonishing 6 feet 9 inches and weighing over 400 pounds, he has earned recognition not only as an elite strongman competitor but also as an actor. In 2018, his dominance in strength sports was solidified when he was crowned the World’s Strongest Man. His extraordinary physical attributes, including 17-inch biceps, a 45-inch waist, and a 63-inch chest, make him one of the most imposing figures in the world of professional athletics.
From Strength to Stardom: Hafþór’s Transition into Acting
Despite his already impressive career in strength competitions, Hafþór took an unexpected turn in 2014 when he ventured into acting. At the time, he was one of the most decorated strongmen in history, yet he received a surprising casting call that would change his life. While in Iceland, he was contacted for a role in the globally popular HBO series Game of Thrones. Initially, he was skeptical, believing the offer to be a joke. “I thought it was some kind of prank. I had no acting experience,” he admitted. “I was just a big guy competing in Strongman.”
However, Hafþór embraced the opportunity, ultimately securing the role of Ser Gregor “The Mountain” Clegane in Season 4. His portrayal of the fearsome warrior left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide, opening new doors in the entertainment industry. Beyond Game of Thrones, he continued to explore acting, taking on the role of King Thor, a Viking warrior, at the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire.
In 2019, Hafþór expanded his film portfolio by appearing alongside boxing legend Mike Tyson in Pharaoh’s War, an action film centered around a soldier assisting refugees in the desert. He later secured a role in The Northman, a historical epic that featured major Hollywood stars such as Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Ethan Hawke, and Willem Dafoe. His growing presence in cinema has further solidified his status as more than just a strongman.
Personal Life and Family
Beyond his professional successes, Hafþór’s personal life has been marked by both joy and challenges. In 2017, his life took another significant turn when he met Kelsey Morgan Henson in Alberta, Canada. Kelsey, a fitness enthusiast and waitress at the time, first approached Hafþór for a photo. That simple moment sparked a romance that quickly gained public attention, not only due to their chemistry but also because of their striking height difference—Kelsey stands at just 5 feet 2 inches, nearly two feet shorter than her husband.
Their relationship blossomed, and by August 2018, the couple tied the knot in a heartfelt ceremony. Hafþór announced the news on social media with a touching tribute: “It is with great pleasure that I now get to call Kelsey Morgan Henson my wife. I get to hold this beautiful woman through thick and thin for the rest of our lives! I’m so excited for all the future adventures we will tackle side by side. #justmarried.”
In September 2020, the couple welcomed their son, Stormur Magni Hafþórsson, further strengthening their bond as a family.
Overcoming Loss and Finding Strength
Despite their joyful moments, Hafþór and Kelsey have also endured profound heartbreak. On November 10, 2023, they shared the devastating news of their daughter Grace Morgan Hafþórsdóttir’s passing. At just 21.5 weeks of gestation, Grace’s loss was a deeply emotional experience for the family.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, they expressed their grief and love for their daughter: “It is with great sorrow that we announce the birth of our daughter, Grace Morgan Hafþórsdóttir, born Nov 8th at 21 1/2 weeks gestation. After a noticeable decrease in movement, we found out her heart had stopped beating. Words cannot describe our pain of this loss or our happiness at being able to spend time with our daughter. She is absolutely beautiful, with blonde lashes and brows and a little smile for mom and dad. The love we feel for her is overwhelming.”
The couple added, “The grief we feel will be with us forever but so will the love. All of our hopes and dreams for her have been taken away from us, but I know I will be with her again. Her spirit lives on through us and her siblings. We ask that you respect our privacy at this time as we grieve this unbearable loss. Thank you all for any kind words and support.”
A Relationship Built on Love and Humor
Despite facing challenges, Hafþór and Kelsey continue to embrace life with humor and affection. One recurring question from fans revolves around how the towering strongman manages to kiss his much shorter wife. During a lighthearted Instagram Q&A, a fan asked, “Do you jump into his arms every time and wrap your legs around his waist? Please, post a picture of this impressive action!” Kelsey playfully responded, “Ah, he bends, I tiptoe. Or just say screw it, pick me up!”
Their humorous take on such questions showcases the warmth and playfulness in their relationship. Though their physical contrast may stand out, their emotional connection remains strong and unwavering.
Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Through his achievements in sports, acting, and personal growth, Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson continues to inspire millions around the world. Whether lifting record-breaking weights, portraying powerful characters on screen, or embracing fatherhood, he has demonstrated resilience and determination in every aspect of his life.
His story is one of strength—not just physical, but emotional as well. With his loving wife by his side, a growing family, and a career that continues to evolve, Hafþór’s journey is far from over. He remains a symbol of perseverance, proving that even giants have hearts full of love and compassion.
