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Peter Mayhew is Returning as Chewbacca for 'Star Wars: Episode VII'

by
April 7, 2014
Source: THR

Peter Mayhew

Just over the weekend we learned that casting was nearly complete for Star Wars: Episode VII as some preliminary shooting was happening overseas. However, we've yet to hear any concrete details on who will be the new heroes in the sci-fi sequel, and which of the saga characters will be returning. We already know R2-D2 will be back (and likely C-3PO), but now THR has word that Peter Mayhew will have a role in the film. If that name doesn't sound familiar, Star Wars fans like myself are happy to inform you that he's the man under the big walking carpet that is Chewbacca, loyal sidekick and co-pilot to Han Solo. More below!

Rumors started swirling that Mayhew would be back as Chewbacca when he canceled an appearance at Texas convention Comicpalooza "due to filming.” That convention takes place from May 23rd-26th, which would be after the sequel is supposed to begin production, so it was assumed that he would be busy with Episode VII and the trade seems to have confirmed as such. Otherwise, rumors have pegged a return for Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher as Luke Skywalker, Han Solo and Princess Leia, though they're probably not the primary characters. Otherwise, we've got Adam Driver playing a villain, and we're waiting to hear just who else will end up in a galaxy far, far away in 2015. Stay tuned.

Find more posts: Casting, Movie News, Star Wars

6 Comments

1

I think this is awesome news. This is the first forward continuation of Star Wars since Return of the Jedi, and not a prequel. I think it only makes sense to bring back as much of the original cast and crew as possible. I was very happy John Williams and Ben Burtt were brought back for the score and sound design. I love the idea of bringing back Ford, Hamill, Fisher, Mayhew, and anyone else from the original cast. Hopefully we can get Anthony Daniels back, perhaps Frank Oz to voice a ghost of Yoda for a scene or two.

Chris Groves on Apr 7, 2014

2

I think bringing back all the old talent will be a recipe for disaster. Times have changed and fans want a fresh take in a familiar world, not a rehash of old ideas and ancient characters. Cameos will be ok, but this project needs fresh talent to be successful.

MattPeloquin on Apr 7, 2014

3

There will obviously be young heroes to complement the old favorites. This will likely be the last ride for the old cast and properly transition us into the next generation of characters that will get complete focus in Episode 8 and 9.

Chris Groves on Apr 7, 2014

4

Ditto. Ben Burtt is a personal hero. Modeled a previous career chasing him. Didn't quite get to the Ranch though. ;P As long as JJ doesn't screw too much with Kasdan's script... & the editors don't go nuts... I think we're in for a pleasant surprise.

avconsumer2 on Apr 8, 2014

5

This isn't official yet until Lucasfilm and Disney says it is... so, consider this rumor for now folks. As I've been saying before, and I'll say it again... everything will more than likely be revealed on May the Fourth (aka: Star Wars Day).

DarthVerous on Apr 7, 2014

6

I hate to say this but would it really make that much of a difference if it wasn't him playing the character?

Nathan Williams on Apr 7, 2014

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