Peter Mayhew, the actor best-known for playing the beloved wookie Chewbacca in Star Wars, has passed away. He was 74.
Mayhew’s death was confirmed by his family through his official Twitter account. It has been reported that he passed away in his North Texas home, surrounded by family, on April 30th. His cause of death is yet to be disclosed.
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. pic.twitter.com/YZ5VLyuK0u
— Peter Mayhew Foundation (@TheWookieeRoars) May 2, 2019
A private memorial to the late actor will take place on June 29th, whilst a gathering for fans to pay the respects will happen this December at EmpireConLA.
Mayhew was discovered by producer Charles H. Schneer at King’s College Hospital in London. It has been reported that his immense height —Mayhew stood at 7 feet and 3 inches— landed him the role as Chewbacca.
Mayhew appeared in The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Revenge of the Sith, The Force Awakens and The Star Wars Holiday Special.
Additionally, Mayhew authored two books My Favourite Giant and Growing Up Giant.
Mayhew’s first feature film role was as a minotaur in 1976’s Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger.
Check out Chewbacca’s best moments below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGPi-JqG7-A
