Peter W. Mayhew

 Peter W. Mayhew (May 19, 1944 – April 30, 2019)

Mayhew was an English-American actor, best known for portraying Chewbacca in the Star Wars film series. He played the character in all of his live action appearances from the 1977 original to 2015's The Force Awakens before his retirement from the role due to health concerns. Mayhew played the role in commercials and hospital appearances for sick children, and made numerous appearances as Chewbacca outside the Star Wars films. Mayhew, appearing as Chewbacca, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the MTV Film Awards 1997. He was additionally honoured at the release of the new PlayStation Portable where he dressed as Chewbacca and held up the new PSP slim version. He became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 2005 at a ceremony in Arlington, Texas. Mayhew lived with his wife Mary Angela ("Angie") in Boyd, Texas. On May 2, 2019, Mayhew's family announced he died at his home on 30 April, just weeks from his 75th birthday. He is buried at Azleland Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Reno, Texas.