Star Wars Actor Peter Mayhew Gives Touching Tribute to Kenny Baker

Peter Mayhew, who plays Chewbacca on Star Wars, paid tribute to the late Kenny Baker (who played R2-D2 in the same franchise) on his personal blog. Mayhew revealed that he had not just lost a co-worker with Baker's death, but a close friend as well. Apparently, the loss was so profound he needed time to compose his thoughts, which is why there was a delay in this tribute.

You can read Mayhew's full blog post below:

I know I'm a bit late with this, but my sadness is profound and no words seemed adequate to convey what we collectively and I personally have lost with the passing of my dear friend Kenny Baker. Kenny and I became fast friends the first time we met and formed a lifelong bond after realizing that we had so much in common. Although people liked to contrast the difference in our heights, we found we shared many of the same struggles, from finding clothes, driving cars, and fitting in airplane seats to health issues and the ever constant stares of strangers; we understood each other on a level that few others can. I am so very glad I got to spend time with him in London earlier this month. His talent and his wicked sense of humor never diminished even as his health did. Ever the showman, Kenny was always eager to meet his fans. In the decades we knew each other, I never met anyone who enjoyed the public more. For all the joy he brought this world on screen and off I give my thanks, and a final farewell to my little friend with the giant heart who's gone to soon. Rest in Peace Kenny.

In addition to being a touching tribute, this shed some light on the friendship between Mayhew and Baker. It is certainly unexpected that the tallest and smallest man on the set would bond the most, but it makes sense considering they both stood out due to their unusual heights. It's sweet to know they bonded over their struggles with that.

Baker passed away at 83 after a long battle with illness. Despite being in the thoes of sickness, he reprised his role for The Force Awakens. Mayhew's eulogy certainly shows us what a remarkable man he was.

Read: Star Wars Legend Mark Hamill Pays Tribute To Kenny Baker, aka R2-D2