The actor died April 30, 2019, with his family by his side in his North Texas home.
Peter Mayhew, you will be greatly missed.
Several Hollywood stars, co-stars and friends took to social media to share their condolences after learning on Thursday that the iconic Star Wars actor, known for portraying the lovable Chewbacca, died at the age of 74.
For over 40 years, Mayhew embraced his Wookiee role in five Star Wars films -- Star Wars (1977), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi (1983), Revenge of the Sith (2005) and The Force Awakens (2015) -- and beloved by many.
"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," Mark Hamill wrote. "I'm grateful for the memories we shared & I'm a better man for just having known him. Thanks Pete #RIPPeterMayhew #Heartbroken @TheWookieeRoars."
Billy Dee Williams, known as Lando in the franchise, tweeted a black-and-white throwback, as well as other photos of the two.
"Much more than Chewie to me...My heart hurts…I will miss you my dear friend…thanks for the great memories! #RIPPeterMayhew #StarWars," he expressed.
The Last Jedi director, Rian Johnson, also wrote some touching words about Mayhew.
"RIP Peter Mayhew. To create a beloved character with warmth and humor is a testament to any actor’s spirit. To do it under a half ton of yak hair takes a true legend. ❤️❤️," he tweeted.
Joonas Suotamo, who took on the role of Chewbacca in The Last Jedi, also honored Mayhew.
See more reactions, below.
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