Peter William Mayhew was born today, May 19, 1944 in Surrey, England. While most people know him best for his role as Chewbacca his first role was Minoton in Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger due to being listed in a newspaper article about men with large feet. You never know when you’ll catch your big break!
When casting the role of Chewbacca, first and foremost in his mind was the characteristic of “tall”. Originally he had planned for David Prose to play Chewbacca, a mere 6’6″. Mayhew was perfect to play the character due to his height of 7’3″, however, to prepare for the role of Chewbacca, Mayhew went to the zoo to study animal like bears and gorillas for their movements so that he could add and incorporate them into his performance.
Mayhew played Chewbacca from 1977 until he passed the role on to his body double, Joonas Suotamo for Solo: A Star Wars Story, and so on for The Last Jedi and ongoing. His last time playing Chewbacca was in 2015’s The Force Awakens.
However, Mayhew had a huge heart and wrote two books titled “Growing Up Giant” and “My Favorite Giant” which tackled topics of being different, and anti-bullying. Additionally, Mayhew also made multiple appearances at hospitals for sick children.
That being said, this is the comics round-up, so here are some comic books to help us remember Peter Mayhew via Chewbacca!
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Chewbacca Created by Marvel in 2015, this story takes place after the events of Return of the Jedi, as Chewbacca gets caught between his duties to the rebellion and his friends, to that of a young girl in need. A five issue run that is considered canon, to remember how awesome Chewbacca is! By Gerry Duggan with art by Phil Noto. |
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Star Wars: Chewbacca Created in 2000, this four part series focuses entirely on the hairy hero. The first episode told from the point of view of Chewbacca’s wife, and his father as they recount his exploits. If you want to learn more about a person, learn it from their family! By Darko Macan with art from Brent Anderson and Igor Kordey. |
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Smuggler’s Run: A Han Solo Adventure Taking place between A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back, Han and Chewbacca set out on a top secret mission for the sake of the rebellion. Their goal, however, puts them in Hutt space, and in direct danger thanks to Jabba’s bounty. By Greg Rucka with art by Phil Noto. |
Hope you check out those comic books. If you have your own suggestion, drop it below!
See you guys next week!
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