Guinness World Records has announced the passing of Louise Hollis, the record holder for the world’s longest toenails, at the age of 86.
Louise’s daughter, Dana, confirmed her death to Guinness World Records and shared the news on Louise’s official Facebook page, saying, “Thank you for all the love and support you have shown her over the years. Please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time. God bless you all.”
Louise, a California native, rose to fame in 1991 when her toenails were measured at a combined length of 220.98 cm (87 inches), earning her a spot in the Guinness World Records.
Her journey began in 1981 after watching a TV show featuring the longest fingernails.
“An entry in Guinness World Records 2004 noted that each toenail was, on average, as long as the width of a page in the book itself. This was the longest-ever length recorded for her toenails,” the organization stated.
Her toenails became a defining part of her life, forcing her to make adjustments to her daily routine.
“They got so long, I couldn’t walk anymore unless I held up my heel. Each summer I would always let ’em grow long because I like to wear sun shoes. The next summer, they were just too pretty, and I just hated to cut ’em. And so, I didn’t!” Louise told Fox television’s Guinness World Records Primetime in 1999.
In later years, Louise appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show at age 68, showcasing her record-breaking toenails. When asked by Ellen how she managed to navigate life with her nails, she quipped, “I just walk softly and carry a big stick.”
Living with such long nails was not without challenges. Louise rarely wore shoes, opting for open-toed footwear with thick soles to accommodate her nails. Cold weather was also a hurdle, but she shared, “I either just stay in or take a blanket and wrap it over me.” Ellen gifted her custom-made boots with cut-out toes during the show.
Her nails even affected her personal life. After 22 years of marriage and 12 children, her husband gave her an ultimatum: “Nails go or I go.” Louise’s response was clear: “I’ve had you for 22 years; you can split. The nails are new.”
Despite the challenges, Louise never intended to trim her nails after achieving the record.
“I think after I get into the Guinness book, I’ll cut them down to size. But they’re never going to be short, anyway. No way!” she once remarked.
Louise Hollis leaves behind a legacy as a Guinness World Records icon, remembered for her unique dedication to preserving her extraordinary toenails.
