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Peter Mayhew, who played the role of Chewbacca in the Star Wars series, has died aged 74.

Mayhew appeared in the original three films, as well as the third prequel film and The Force Awakens, the first of the latest trilogy. He had previously worked as a hospital porter, with minor roles in movies such as Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger. The role was taken over by Joonas Suotamo for the later movies, with Mayhew acting as mentor.

Harrison Ford told The Hollywood Reporter: “Peter Mayhew was a kind and gentle man, possessed of great dignity and noble character,” said the actor. “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. He invested his soul in the character and brought great pleasure to the Star Wars audience.”

Continued Ford, “Chewbacca was an important part of the success of the films we made together. He knew how important the fans of the franchise were to its continued success and he was devoted to them. I 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…. “