What was Peter Mayhew's cause of death and when did the Chewbacca star die?

PETER Mayhew, who famously portrayed the character of Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise, died aged 74, his family revealed.

The legendary Hollywood actor, who reprised the role in five films, passed away with family and friends close by his side, but what actually caused Peter's death and what are his former co-stars saying about his demise? Find out below…

When did the Chewbacca star die?

Peter’s family revealed that the former actor died of a heart attack on 30 April, 2019.

He was surrounded by close family members and friends at his home in Boyd, North Texas.

Peter was 74 years old.

On July 2018, the entertainer had undergone spinal surgery to improve his mobility but his condition

What was Peter Mayhew's cause of death?

Peter died from a heart condition, his family confirmed.

It’s been no secret that the Hollywood star had been battling health problems for several years, even while he was shooting scenes for The Force Awakens.

In fact, Peter’s health had deteriorated so much to the point where he was forced to remain in a wheelchair during his final years.

Reports claim that the actor who helmed one of the most iconic characters in the Star Wars franchise, fought his way back from being in a wheelchair while filming commenced for the 2015 feature film.

It would be the last time that Peter reprised the role of Chewbacca; a character he first played in the Star Wars trilogy from 1977 through 1983, and again in 2005’s Revenge Of The Sith.

How did his co-stars react to his death?

Mark Hamill, who famously played the role of Luke Skywalker, was one of the first cast members to share his condolences via social media.

“A big man with an even bigger heart who never failed to make me smile and a loyal friend who I loved dearly,” the actor shared in a heartfelt message via Twitter.

Star Wars creator George Lucas continued, sharing some of his favorite moments with the man he’d known for well over 40 years.

“Peter was a wonderful man”, the Californian filmmaker shared.

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“He was the closest any human being could be to a Wookiee: big heart, gentle nature and I learned to always let him win. He was a good friend and I'm saddened by his passing."

Harrison Ford, most known for his portrayal of smuggler Solo, expressed how Peter had “great dignity and noble character”.

'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. I and millions of others will never forget Peter and what he gave us all”.

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