Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Billy Dee Williams and more pay tribute to Star Wars’ Peter Mayhew
Geesh, the timing of this one really couldn’t be worse for Star Wars fans. Peter Mayhew, who made such an impact to generations without saying a word in his iconic role of Chewbacca, died Tuesday at 74. For Star Wars fans, that definitely puts a somber note on the annual May the Force (May 4) celebrations, which are always special in the year of a new movie coming to theaters.
Mayhew always seemed to appreciate being a part of one of the biggest franchises in movie history and was one of the few performers to take part in all three trilogies. Here’s some tributes from his co-stars and peers.
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
Harrison Ford, whose Han Solo was most closely connected with Mayhew’s Chewbacca issued a statement to The Hollywood Reporter citing Mayhew as ‘a man of great dignity and noble character whose command of Chewbacca was instrumental to the franchise’s success’
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. I and millions of others will never forget Peter and what he gave us all.
Much more than Chewie to me…My heart hurts…I will miss you my dear friend…thanks for the great memories! #RIPPeterMayhew #StarWars pic.twitter.com/kKSrvAfNiT
— Billy Dee Williams (@realbdw) May 3, 2019
Star Wars creator George Lucas sent a statement to USA Today: 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.
Joonas Suotamo, who worked alongside Mayhew in playing Chewbacca in The Force Awakens before assuming the role full time had a very nice message.
R.I.P 😔 pic.twitter.com/FWRgaOS0Tf
— Joonas Suotamo (@JoonasSuotamo) May 2, 2019
Suotamo has always been extremely gracious in discussing Mayhew’s warmth and grace in transitioning the role to his successor.
Mayhew was a regular on the con circuit in this area. Here’s a shot I got from Baltimore Comic Con 2014 when he was meeting with fans.
A sad day for millions of fans. https://t.co/qRfFWOd4ck
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 2, 2019
Sad to hear of Peter Mayhew's passing. So long, Chewie, may the force be with you.
— Elijah Wood (@elijahwood) May 2, 2019
💔I am so sorry to hear about Peter. We had so many fun and memorable tweets back and forth over the years plus seeing each other at a convention here and there. My deepest condolences to his family. He will be sorely missed! 😢 https://t.co/R3lAEvkQJc
— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) May 2, 2019