Star Wars actor and legend, Peter Mayhew, who played Chewbacca in the original trilogy, has died at 74-years-old.
His family confirmed the sad news in a statement.
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The family of Peter Mayhew released a statement announcing his passing.
“He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home,” the statement read.
“Peter was the man behind the mask of Chewbacca in the original “Star Wars” trilogy, episode 3 of prequels, and the New Trilogy,” they wrote.
“He fought his way back from being wheelchair-bound to stand tall and portray Chewbacca once more in Star Wars: The Force Awakens .”
His family revealed that Peter had 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 his head and mouth,” they continued.
“But, to him, the “Star Wars” family meant so much more to him than a role in a film.”
Our hearts are broken.
The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers and gifts, fans could consider making a donation to the Peter Mayhew Foundation.
The Peter Mayhew Foundation is a nonprofit organization devoted to the alleviation of disease, pain, suffering, and the financial toll brought on by life’s traumatic events.
Goodbye, Chewbacca. Miss you I will.
