Main image via Newshub
It’s a sad day in a galaxy far, far away because the Star Wars world has lost one of its iconic stars.
Peter Mayhew, who played the legendary Wookie, Chewbacca, has passed away at the age of 74, his family shared.
Image via WJLA
In an issued statement, his family wrote, “The family of Peter Mayhew, with deep love and sadness, regrets to share the news that Peter has passed away. He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home.”
“He put his heart and soul into the role of Chewbacca,” the statement continued. “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 his head and mouth. But, to him, the Star Wars family meant so much more to him than a role in a film.”
For over 40 years, Peter embraced his role as Han Solo’s right hand man and co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon. The actor went on to star as the beloved Chewie in five Star Wars movies – Star Wars (1977), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi (1983), Revenge of the Sith (2005) and The Force Awakens (2015).
In a written statement, director, George Lucas said, “Peter was a wonderful man. He was the closest any human being could be to a Wookie: big heart, gentle nature… and I learned to always let him win. He was a good friend and I’m saddened by his passing.”
Image via Pinterest
Harrison Ford aka Han Solo, issued a statement about his beloved co-pilot saying, “Peter Mayhew was a kind and gentle man, possessed of great dignity and noble character. These aspects of his own personality plus his wit and grace, he brought to Chewbacca. We were partners in film and friends in life for over 30 years and I loved him. He invested his soul in the character and brought great pleasure to the Star Wars audience.”
“Chewbacca was an important part of the success of the films we made together,” he continued. “He knew how important the fans of the franchise were to its continued success and he was devoted to them. I, and millions of others, will never forget Peter and what he gave us all. My thoughts are with his dear wife Angie and his children. Rest easy, my dear friend.”
Image via The Australian
Mark Hamill took to social media to share his love for the actor saying, “He was the gentlest of giants – A big man with an even bigger heart who never failed to make me smile & a loyal friend who I loved dearly – I’m grateful for the memories we shared & I’m a better man for just having known him. Thanks Pete.”
Other cast and crew members as well as Star Wars fans also took to social media to pay their respects to the gentle giant.
Our thoughts and love are with his family and loved ones. May the force be with you, Peter. Thank you for Chewie.
Info via E! Online + ET Online
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