It is with great sadness that we learned the passing of Peter Mayhew.

Surrounded by his family at his North Texas home, the gentle giant passed away late last evening, April 30th.

Peter Mayhew portrayed our favorite Wookiee from “A New Hope” up until “The Force Awakens” and the now classic “Star Wars Holiday Special” He is seldom known for other roles, but made guest appearances in The Muppet Show and Glee and played the Tall Knight in Dark Towers.

Fans will be able to honor Mayhew in early December, in Los Angeles, at EmpireCon.

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 Foundation (@TheWookieeRoars) May 2, 2019