Peter Mayhew

Peter William Mayhew (19 May 1944 – 30 April 2019) was a British-American actor best known for playing the character Chewbacca in the Star Wars film series.

Peter Mayhew in 2015

Quotes

• I’ve always said, if I get tired of it, I won’t do it. And I still enjoy it, and what’s there to get tired of? I always think that if people don’t recognize me, that’s when the problem starts. Right? That’s my way of looking at it. It’s great fun. I enjoy it. As I say, I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t enjoy it.
• I enjoy kids, always have. It’s wonderful to see their reactions, to see their faces light up when you look at the pictures because most kids have been brought up on Star Wars from their parents. It’s just a crazy thing, but it’s wonderful to see the kids and they have fun. It’s one of those things, they either believe it and go, “wow, you really played Chewbacca?” And I say, “Yes.” Having big hands is an ice-breaker. Because you put one hand up against their little hand and see the expression on their face. Amazing.
  • Star Wars Weekends: Peter Mayhew/Chewbacca Interview (May 27, 2009)