Peter Mayhew, actor who played 'Chewbacca,' dead at 74

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (FOX 11) - Actor Peter Mayhew, who played the iconic character of Chewbacca in Star Wars, has died. He was 74 years old.

Mayhew's family members posted a statement on the actor's passing on his Twitter account.

"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...But, to him, the Star Wars family meant so much more to him than a role in a film." read the statement.

Mayhew passed away on April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home, according to his family.

The beloved actor created the Peter Mayhew foundation supporting those in crisis situations.

"He not only provided funds but became personally involved with each individual, family and cause he supported," read the statement.

There will be a memorial service for friends and family held on June 29, 2019, and in early December in Los Angeles, there will be a memorial set up for fans.

Mayhew is survived by his wife Angie and three children.

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