Yesterday news broke that the galaxy far, far away lost one of its brightest stars in Peter Mayhew, the actor best known for playing Chewbacca in the series starting back to 1977. He died at the age of 74. As the news was making headlines fans all over the world paid their respects to the actor who brought to life the iconic Wookie with heart and soul. At the same time, those who worked closest with the man came forward to pay their respects in statements and social media posts, with actors Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Billy Dee Williams and Star Wars creator George Lucas issuing thoughtful words.
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Ford, who played Han Solo in the Star Wars movies worked closest with Mayhew, as Chewbacca and Solo made for one of the greatest on-screen duos of all time. The actor issued a statement to EW:
“Peter Mayhew was a kind and gentle man, possessed of great dignity and noble character,” he said. “These aspects of his own personality, plus his wit and grace, he brought to Chewbacca. We were partners in film and friends in life for over 30 years and I loved him. He invested his soul in the character and brought great pleasure to the Star Wars audience.
“Chewbacca was an important part of the success of the films we made together,” Ford continued. “He knew how important the fans of the franchise were to it’s continued success and he was devoted to them. I and millions of others will never forget Peter and what he gave us all. My thoughts are with his dear wife Angie and his children. Rest easy, my dear friend.…”
The man who created the series of movies and who directed Mayhew in A NEW HOPE and the prequel trilogy, George Lucas, also issued a statement, saying the actor was the closest we will ever get to having a real, loving Wookie in the world.
“Peter was a wonderful man. He was the closest any human being could be to a Wookiee: big heart, gentle nature…and I learned to always let him win. He was a good friend and I’m saddened by his passing.”
Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy also shared words on the Star Wars website:
“We are deeply saddened today by the news of Peter Mayhew’s passing,” she said. “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. When I first met Peter during The Force Awakens, I was immediately impressed by his kind and gentle nature. Peter was brilliantly able to express his personality through his skillful use of gesture, posture, and eyes. We all love Chewie, and have Peter to thank for that enduring memory.”
As for the social media posts, Hamill, Williams, JJ Abrams, Rian Johnson and the actor to take over the mantle of Chewbacca, Joonas Suotamo posted loving tributes to their friend.
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