British actor, Peter Mayhew who starred as Chewbacca in the movie Star Wars has been announced dead at age 74.
The actor who is described by family as a “gentle giant and a very quiet, shy and beautiful person” died a peaceful death while surrounded by family and friends at his Texas home. The cause of his death is not known yet.
His family said: “Peter was the man behind the mask of Chewbacca in the original Star Wars triology, episode 3 of the prequels and the New Triology.
“He fought his way back from being wheelchair-bound to stand tall and portray Chewbacca once more in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
“He also 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.
“But, to him, the Star Wars family meant so much more to him than a role in the film.”
