Earlier this week, actor Peter Mayhew passed away at the age of 74. Over four decades ago, in the original Star Wars movie, Mayhew portrayed the instantly iconic Wookie, Chewbacca. Now, Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill have paid tribute to their friend and co-star.
Ford released a lengthy statement via The Hollywood Reporter. “Peter Mayhew was a kind and gentle man, possessed of great dignity and noble character,’ wrote Ford. “These aspects of his own personality, plus his wit and grace, he brought to Chewbcca. We were partners in film and friends in life for over 30 years and I loved him. He invested his soul in the character and brought great pleasure to the Star Wars audience.”
Additionally, Ford said that he “and millions of others will never forget Peter and what he gave us all. My thoughts are with his dear wife Angie and his children. Rest easy, my dear friend.”
RELATED: Star Wars Actor Peter Mayhew Passes Away
As for Hamill, he posted his thoughts on Twitter alongside some photos of Mayhew.
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
According to Mayhew’s family, his memorial service will be held on June 29.
Feel free to share your favorite Peter Mayhew memories in the comment section below.
