Chewbacca, Peter Mayhew has died
He was 74 years old.
Peter Mayhew played the lovable Chewbacca in the original Star Wars trilogy, episode three of the prequels, and shared the role in 2015’s The Force Awakens. According to his family, he passed away earlier this week in his home in Texas.
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
The cause of death has not been made public at this time, however, Mayhew had battled health issues and under went spinal surgery last year. Mayhew had remained active on social media updating fans of his health.
Sorry, I’ve been quiet as of late. I’ve been planning & going through some spinal surgery to improve my mobility. It’s been a success & I’ll be spending the upcoming weeks recovering. A big thank you to the doctors, staff, my family & friends that have helped me through this. pic.twitter.com/fdfUelrsel
— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) July 24, 2018
Star Wars creator George Lucas had wanted a tall actor to play Chewbacca. Peter Mayhew was a staggering 2.18m/ 7ft 2in tall and so, was given the role.