Which Old Stars are Back in the New Star Wars Movie?

4. Peter Mayhew

You might not recognize his face without the fur, but everybody’s favorite Wookiee, Chewbacca, has been played by British-American actor Peter Mayhew since the inaugural 1977 Star Wars film. He has genetic condition called Marfan Syndrome that has contributed to an overactive pituitary gland, causing him to grow to 7 feet 3 inches tall. He’s had a smattering of other roles, but has mostly made appearances as Chewy in various commercials and television shows throughout the years. The 71-year-old was in a wheelchair for a few years, and then walked with a cane, but managed to suit up yet again for his iconic role as Han Solo’s trusty sidekick. Note, he doesn’t provide the voicing for Chewbacca’s signature grunts and roars, which were created by a sound engineer’s blend of walrus, lion, camel, bear, rabbit, tiger and badger noises.