Star Wars' Chewbacca actor, Peter Mayhew, dies at age 74

Star Wars' Chewbacca actor, Peter Mayhew, has died aged 74.

Mayhew's family shared the news on their Twitter, saying: "The family of Peter Mayhew, with deep love and sadness, regrets to share the news that Peter has passed away.

Chewbacca played by British actor Peter Mayhew.
SUPPLIED
Chewbacca played by British actor Peter Mayhew.

"He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home."

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Chewbacca actor Peter Mayhew has died.
Chewbacca actor Peter Mayhew has died.

"Peter was the man behind the mask of Chewbacca in the original Star Wars trilogy, episode 3 of the prequels, and the new Trilogy.

"He fought his way back from being wheelchair-bound to stand tall and portray Chewbacca once more in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He also consulted on The Last Jedi in an attempt to teach his successor.

"He put his heart and soul into the role of Chewbacca and it showed in every frame of the films from his knock kneed running, firing his bowcaster from the hip, his bright blue eyes, down to each subtle movement of the head and mouth.

"But, to him, the Star Wars family meant so much more to him than a role in a film," the family tribute said.

Mayhew had also been involved in the charity side of the convention circuit, and heavily supported the 501st Legion, a Star Wars cosplay group who did work for charity.

He also worked with Wounded Warriors, Make-A-Wish and other non-profit organisations.

Mayhew was discovered by producer Charles H. Schneer while working as a hospital attendant in London and cast in Ray Harryhausen's Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger.

The next year, he was cast as Chewbacca, the 200-year-old Wookiee.

Mayhew went on to appear in The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Revenge of the Sith, The Force Awakens and The Star Wars Holiday Special.

He was active on the Star Wars convention circuit and wrote two books, Growing Up Giant and My Favorite Giant.

A family memorial will be held on June 29th and in early December, the family's announced there will be a fan memorial in December which will use personal memorabilia to pay tribute.

Mayhew is survived by his wife Angie and three children.

 

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