Peter Mayhew is an actor with an estimated net worth of $5 million.
Quick Facts
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Birthdate | May 19, 1944 |
| Age | 79 years old (at the time of his passing) |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Gender | Male |
| Profession | Actor |
| Nationality | British |
Overview
Peter Mayhew was a British actor best known for his role as Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise. He was a towering figure, standing at 7’3″, which made him a natural choice for the Wookiee character. Mayhew played Chewbacca in five Star Wars films: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977), Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983), Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005), and Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015).
Early Life
Peter Mayhew was born in London, England, on May 19, 1944. He was the tallest of eight children, standing at 7’3″ by the time he was 16. After working as a hospital porter and a nightclub bouncer, Mayhew moved to the United States in 1974 to pursue a career in acting. His unique stature allowed him to find work in various television shows and films, often as a giant or a creature.
Career
Mayhew’s breakout role came in 1977 when he was cast as Chewbacca in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. He reprised the role in the sequels, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983). Mayhew also appeared as Chewbacca in the prequel film, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005). The role of Chewbacca became synonymous with Mayhew, and he was a popular figure at conventions and other events. In the 2015 film, Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, Mayhew had a limited role as Chewbacca due to his age and health, and he was joined by Joonas Suotamo, who played the role in the sequel films.
Career Highlights
| Role | Film/TV Show | Year |
| Chewbacca | Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope | 1977 |
| Chewbacca | Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back | 1980 |
| Chewbacca | Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi | 1983 |
| Chewbacca | Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith | 2005 |
| Chewbacca | Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens | 2015 |
Personal Life
Mayhew was married three times and had three children. He was a private person who enjoyed spending time with his family. He was known for his kind nature and willingness to help others, and he often participated in charitable events. Mayhew suffered from several health issues in his later years, including diabetes and arthritis. He died on April 30, 2019, at the age of 74.
Net Worth Details
Mayhew’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million. He made a substantial amount of money from his role as Chewbacca, which he continued to play in various media appearances and conventions throughout his career. He also earned income from various other acting roles and appearances. He was known for his generosity and donated to numerous charities, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Conclusion
Peter Mayhew will always be remembered for his iconic portrayal of Chewbacca. He brought the beloved Wookiee character to life with his towering presence and heart, and he will forever be a part of the Star Wars legacy. His kind nature and willingness to help others make him an inspiration, and his legacy will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come.
