The family of English actor Peter Mayhew have confirmed that he has passed away at the age of 74.
The actor, best known for his portrayal of Chewbacca in the original Star Wars trilogy, passed away on April 30th "with his family by his side."
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
Peter's co-stars have been sharing their memories of their time working with him:
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 #RIPPeterMayhew #Heartbroken @TheWookieeRoars pic.twitter.com/8xbq9HEWF2
— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) May 2, 2019
'Star Wars' creator George Lucas on the death of Chewbacca actor Peter Mayhew: "He was the closest any human being could be to a Wookiee: big heart, gentle nature" https://t.co/ANrDJCY3J9 pic.twitter.com/Up0xPHZnEj
— ABC News (@ABC) May 3, 2019
Harrison Ford, who played Han Solo alongside Mayhew's Chewbacca, shared the following statement:
Mayhew's family has said a memorial service will be held on June 29th and a memorial for fans would be held in December at Empire Con, an event for Star Wars fans.
