Harrison Ford Talks About Peter Mayhew, the Passing of the Actor Who Famously Played Chewbacca

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(KNX 1070) -- Peter Mayhew, the actor famously known (or not) behind the beloved Wookie "Star Wars," Chewbacca character has died at 74. 

Mayhew's family posted a letter to the actor's official Twitter account:

The family of Peter Mayhew, with deep love and sadness, regrets to share the news that Peter has passed away. He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home. pic.twitter.com/YZ5VLyuK0u

— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) May 2, 2019

The 7'3" London born actor played the role in the original "Star Wars" film released in 1977. He reprised the role in "The Empire strieks Back," "Return of the Jedi," and "Star Wars: Episode III."

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-I'm grateful for the memories we shared & I'm a better man for just having known him. Thanks Pete #RIPPeterMayhew #Heartbroken @TheWookieeRoars pic.twitter.com/8xbq9HEWF2

— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) May 2, 2019

He was cast after George Lucas decided he needed an actor who was taller than the Darth Vader character. 

Mayhew also played the Tall Knight on "Dark Towers," and wrote two books, "Growing Up Giant" and "My Favorite Giant."

Harrison Ford said:

"Peter Mayhew was a kind and gentle man, who possessed great dignity and was a noble character.
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.
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 it’s 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…."

He also made guest appearances on "Donny & Marie," "The Muppet Show" and "Glee."

Mayhew is survived by his wife, Angie, and three children. 

A memorial service for friends and family will be held on June 29, with a memorial for fans in Los Angeles in December at EmpireCon.