Star Wars’ Chewbacca Actor Peter Mayhew Dead at 74

John F. Trent |

May 2, 2019

Star Wars actor Peter Mayhew, who played Chewbacca, died at the age of 74.

Mayhew’s family announced the actor’s death on Twitter.

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

They indicated the actor died in his home in North Texas on April 30th.

Mayhew portrayed Chewbacca in all three of the original Star Wars films as well as Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He also consulted on Star Wars: The Last Jedi, where he helped train his protege Joonas Suotamo.

Along with Star Wars, Mayhew played The Tall Knight in Dark Towers. He also provided the dubbed English voice for Susha in Dragon Ball GT: A Hero’s Legacy.

In the family’s announcement they noted the “Star Wars family meant so much more to him than a role in a film.”

They added:

“These relationships that began then grew into the friends and family that he would love for decades to come. As the films released and became more well-known he had his eyes opened to the possibilities of what he could achieve with his role in the Star Wars universe.”

They continued:

“As he realized over the years the impact he could have, he became heavily involved with the 501st legion, Wounded Warriors, Make-a-Wish, and other non-profit organizations.”

Peter also establishd the Peter Mayhew Foundation, which recently provided food and supplies for children in Venezuela during the current political turmoil in the country.

Mayhew is survived by his wife Angie and their children. Angie will take the helm of the Peter Mayhew Foundation and continue his works of kindness, generosity, and care.

A memorial service for Peter will be held for friends and family on June 29th. There will also be a memorial for fans in December in Los Angeles. The memorial will include Peter Mayhew’s family in attendance, personal effects, and collection at EmpireCon LA.

The family is requesting people to donate to the Peter Mayhew Foundation rather than provide gifts and flowers.

Many people honored Mayhew and remembered 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

“We are deeply saddened today by the news of Peter Mayhew’s passing. Since 1976, Peter’s iconic portrayal of the loyal, lovable Chewbacca has been absolutely integral to the character’s success, and to the Star Wars saga itself.”-Kathleen Kennedy.

More: https://t.co/iGfk9XRzKa pic.twitter.com/5edrPrEuRS

— Star Wars (@starwars) May 3, 2019

Harrison Ford on the death of his friend, Chewbacca actor Peter Mayhew: pic.twitter.com/DvVZYICwZ9

— Ryan Parker (@TheRyanParker) May 3, 2019

George Lucas on the passing of Peter Mayhew. @abc pic.twitter.com/P05qaVks5o

— Clayton Sandell (@Clayton_Sandell) May 3, 2019

RIP Peter Mayhew. To create a beloved character with warmth and humor is a testament to any actor’s spirit. To do it under a half ton of yak hair takes a true legend. ❤️❤️

— Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) May 3, 2019

R.I.P 😔 pic.twitter.com/FWRgaOS0Tf

— Joonas Suotamo (@JoonasSuotamo) May 2, 2019

It is with great sadness to share news of the loss of @TheWookieeRoars Peter was not only a Star Wars legend, but a friend to many in the 501st Legion as well as an honorary member himself. Donations can be made to the Peter Mayhew Foundation: https://t.co/JiYAaM4Gpq #BucketsOff pic.twitter.com/5MwRT8tRME

— 501st Legion (@501stLegion) May 2, 2019

Thank you for being part of my pop culture, Peter Mayhew. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/tEdGIFFeaJ

— Perch (@ComicPerch) May 3, 2019

The saddest GIF you’ll see today.

R.I.P. Peter Mayhew pic.twitter.com/dzgLDGBSwz

— Patrick Williams (@PatrickWilliams) May 2, 2019

The Force will be with you always

Chewbacca actor Peter Mayhew dies aged 74 https://t.co/Jvj5UzfZPY

— Jack Posobiec 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) May 3, 2019

Best co-pilot in the galaxy. Thank you for all that you’ve given us, Peter Mayhew. pic.twitter.com/xOKOBPjneN

— The Academy (@TheAcademy) May 3, 2019

Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca) and Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia), 1980. RIP Peter and Carrie. pic.twitter.com/23YiLxpC6F

— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) May 3, 2019