Sad news for Hollywood tonight. Peter Mayhew, best known for his role of Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise, has died. He was 74 years old.
The actor’s cause of death was not available at press time, but it is said he died on April 30.
His family shared the news of his death on the actor’s official Twitter page. They also released the following statement to the media:
“The family of Peter Mayhew, with deep love and sadness, regrets to share the news that Peter has passed away,” the statement read. “He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home.
He fought his way back from being wheelchair-bound to stand tall and portray Chewbacca once more in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. 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.”
The actor is survived by his wife and three children. TVGrapevine sends their condolences to his loved ones.