Massie was born on August 17, 1956, with severe classic hemophilia. As a result of this, his father, Robert Massie Sr., wrote "Nicholas and Alexandra" (1967), a biography of Tsar Nicholas II and his family, which was produced as the movie "Nicholas and Alexandra" four years later. Massie's parents also wrote a more personal account of their son's challenges, titled "Journey". Because of his childhood health issues, Massie spent ages six through twelve in leg braces and a wheelchair. The family spent a few years living in France, where Massie's healthcare was covered by the French government, and he was able to regain the ability to walk.