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 (@TheWookieeRoars) May 2, 2019
Actor Peter Mayhew, famous for his role as Chewbacca in the Star Wars series, has passed away today at the age of 74. The news was shared from Mayhew’s official Twitter account, in which the family of the man left a picture and long message that highlights some of his accomplishments along with detailing plans for a memorial service. Fans of the actor will be able to pay their respects in December at EmpireConLA.
While Chewbacca wasn’t known for his words, Mayhew was known to be a genuinely warm and heartfelt man. He was happy to discuss Star Wars with any fans that approached him. Despite complications in his later life stealing some of his mobility, the man was always seen with a smile on his face and enthusiasm for everything that Lucas and Disney were bringing to the franchise. The role was practically built for him.
Goodbye Chewie. You’ll always be in our hearts.
Peter Mayhew [Twitter]