Shridhar Chillal (born 1938) holds the world record for the longest fingernails ever reached on a single hand, measuring 6.15 meters (20 feet 2.25 inches). Chillal's longest nail is 4.25 feet. He started growing his nails in 1952.
Although Chillal is proud of his record breaking nails, he had increasing difficulties with their weight, which already caused his left fingers to become disfigured (and more or less useless).
He finally cut off his nails in late 2000. However, he may make the odd appearance with his finger nails in tow. He appeared with his nails attached in the movie Jackass 2.5.
See also
Lee Redmond, who held the record for the longest fingernails on both hands.