Han Solo Movie's New Chewbacca Actor Honors Peter Mayhew

The production for Han Solo: A Star Wars Story already kicked off yesterday, and the newly-released cast photo featured its star-studded cast that includes Donald Glover, Alden Ehrenreich, Emilia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, and Westworld's Thandie Newton. The photo also gave us a look at Chewbacca, but this time, Peter Meyhew isn't playing our favorite Wookiee.

Joonas Suotomo, who's playing Han Solo's furry sidekick in the prequel film, has taken it to Instagram to express his excitement on playing the role and honor his predecessor, the original Chewbacca actor, Peter Mayhew.

"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 30-year-old Finnish actor wrote on his Instagram post.

"Chewbacca is one of the most iconic characters in the history of film," Suotamo continued, "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."

Suotamo played Chewie as Peter Mayhew's stand-in in both Star Wars: The Force Awakens and this year's Star Wars: The Last Jedi, but this will be his first solo endeavor as Han's sidekick

Han Solo: A Star Wars Story is set to release in theaters on May 25, 2018.

Read: Han Solo's Funeral Spotted On Croatian Set of Star Wars: The Last Jedi

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