March 31, 2014 – The rumor mill is going into overdrive, tossing out names left and right, as to actors possibly being cast for Star Wars: Episode VII. The latest rumor is that Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca) may be tapped again to reprise his role as everyone’s favorite Wookie. The source of the rumor is a recent tweet that said: “We regret to announce that Peter Mayhew is canceling his appearance at Comicpalooza this year due to filming. — Comicpalooza Con (@Comicpalooza) March 28, 2014”.
Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), June 2013, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Notice his “shredded” T-shirt, ostensibly revealing Chewbacca’s bandolier and Wookie fur.
While it would be great to see Mr. Mayhew make a cameo appearance – along with the almost-confirmed castings of Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford – this rumor doesn’t ring true for me. While he no doubt has many fans, Mr. Mayhew (born May 19, 1944) had double-knee surgery last year. And the two times I have met him, I noticed that both age and his leg joints have considerably impeded his mobility. In plain English: He had difficulty walking.
Nevertheless, we wish Peter Mayhew well, and hope last year’s surgery and his recuperation have gone well. It’s always nice to see a familiar face staring back at you from the big screen.
FUTURE of STAR WARS 