Deron Generally
Deron GenerallyAs Star Wars day approaches, fans of the franchise were dealt a blow today when it was reported that actor Peter Mayhew, nest known for his role as Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise died today at the age of 74.
Mayhew died in his North Texas home surrounded by family. His official Twitter account released a statement that said:
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.
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
Mayhew was discovered while working in a London hospital and Chewbacca became his second film role after appearing in Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger. Mayhew would reprise the role of the loveable Wookie in The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Revenge of the Sith and The Force Awakens.
He is survived by his wife Angie and his three children.
According to Variety, there will be a memorial service for friends and family on June 29th with a fan memorial to be held in Los Angeles this December at EmpireCon.
