Sad news broke yesterday following the death of Peter Mayhew. Fans of Star Wars know the name well. Mayhew played the lovable, loyal Chewbacca and his passing is truly heartbreaking. The 7-foot 3-inch Englishman portrayed the Wookie from Kashyyyk throughout the original trilogy, briefly in “Revenge of the Sith” and finally in “The Force Awakens”.
Several of Mayhew’s co-stars took time to share their thoughts.
And these wonderful words from Harrison Ford:
This one stings. Mayhew’s Chewbacca was a big part of my childhood and still dear to the heart of this huge Star Wars fan. Chewie lives on in the films, but Mayhew’s contributions to this beloved franchise and character will always be remembered and his loss felt for a long, long time.
Keith & the Movies 
You don’t have a heart if you don’t love Chewie and why is that? Peter played him so well , with slight actions and looks, indeed he put himself into this iconic character. May he rest in peace.
YES!. And people may not know this but he put so much into the character. I had read where he studied different animals at a zoo just to pick up authentic animal-like reactions to things. He fully embraced his role as a Star Wars star and absolutely loved the fans. That is soooo rare these days.
Yeah I had a old Star Wars interview from back from the release of Return of the Jedi and Lucas said all the little mannerisms where all Peters doing. He praised him on how he brought even eye rolls to the character. Truly a gifted man and as fans, thankful for his life.
Well said.
Chewie is my favorite Star Wars character. He’s this tall being that can kick ass and can also be funny. I love to do those Wookie speaks as it’s definitely an iconic character. While I’m sad that Mayhew is gone, at least I can be relieved that he was able to let another actor play that character and do it justice with Mayhew at least being involved to mentor that guy. May the Force Be With You Peter.
It just shows how much he love the character in the franchise – mentoring his replacement. Iconic indeed and he definitely left his mark.
Awesome tribute and thanks for the reactions, too. RIP Peter. He was loyal in more ways than one. To his character, to his friends, to his fans. What a swell man.
I read a couple more reactions as well and it’s amazing how often “gentle giant” cane up.
Tragic 😔
RIP Chewie!
Indeed!
RIP Mr. Mayhew! He was such a wonderful gentle giant that would surely be missed by fans and fellow cast/crew alike.
For sure. As a life-long SW fan it really was sad to see. I think it’s awesome that he was able to mentor his replacement.