Here's the actor who plays Chewbacca in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi'
[Photo by: Lucasfilm]
You may not actually realize there was a new actor bringing Chewbacca to life in Star Wars: The Last Jedi—for obvious reasons, of course. However, this time around, actor Joonas Suotamo took on the role—and he has quite the history in the spotlight himself.
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Suotamo took over the role from Peter Mayhew, who had played the role of the Wookiee for years. But, let's be real—he definitely did the role justice.
EW posted this photo of me in episode VIII, and everybody's like “OMG look at that cute Porg!” Smhh �� pic.twitter.com/GsH3P3JYMm
— Joonas Suotamo (@JoonasSuotamo) August 9, 2017
He officially announced that he'd be playing Chewbacca back in February, and his excitement makes our hearts swell.
“I am profoundly grateful for this amazing opportunity to become a part of the Star Wars franchise that I have loved since my childhood,” the actor wrote. “I would like to thank my family, friends, basketball coaches and teammates, fellow cast and crew members, the staff at Lucasfilm and Disney, the great fans of this spectacular universe, and especially Peter Mayhew.
“Chewbacca is one of the most iconic characters in the history of film, and Peter's development and portrayal of this beloved Wookiee has spread so much joy across the globe. Peter's guidance and kindness have been invaluable gifts which warmed my spirit and prepared me for this journey. I aspire to make Peter proud and bring Star Wars fans the Chewie they know and love.”
I'm ecstatic. It's official. And here is my statement to this terrific piece of news https://t.co/a1DPsNDb2P pic.twitter.com/r4EUZ2r17V
— Joonas Suotamo (@JoonasSuotamo) February 21, 2017
And Suotamo isn't only a skilled actor—he is also an incredible basketball player, who was on Penn State's team while he was in school, as Business Insider reports.
After a long wait it was great being back with the gang �� pic.twitter.com/iG6mssSuC4
— Joonas Suotamo (@JoonasSuotamo) December 10, 2017
Cool, right? He's set to reprise his role in Solo: A Star Wars Story as well, and we couldn't be more stoked for him. The newest film in the saga is set to be released on May 25, 2018.
What were your thoughts on the new Chewbacca in The Last Jedi? Let us know in the comments below!
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