Peter Mayhew
Actor best known as Chewbacca
Born
May 19th, 1944
81 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2019
6 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An actor and former hospital orderly, gained fame for portraying Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise, starting with the original film in 1977. Mayhew reprised the role in several sequels and spin-offs, including The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Revenge of the Sith. The character became iconic in popular culture, recognized for its distinct personality and presence alongside Han Solo. Mayhew was known for his towering height, standing at 7 feet 3 inches, which contributed to the character's imposing yet friendly demeanor. Outside of his acting career, Mayhew engaged in charitable work, particularly with children’s hospitals.
Portrayed Chewbacca in Star Wars series
Appeared in the film Revenge of the Sith
Other People Born on May 19th
Sam Smith
An English singer-songwriter rose to fame with the debut single 'Stay With Me' in 2014. The song topped charts globally and received multiple awards. The first album, 'In the Lonely Hour,' earned critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring hits like 'Lay Me Down' and 'I'm Not the Only One'. Smith's distinct vocal style and emotional lyricism resonated with audiences, solidifying a place in contemporary pop music. Subsequent works include collaborations with artists such as Disclosure and Normani, and songs for major soundtracks, further establishing a successful career. Smith's impact on music has been marked by numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Continue ReadingYo Gotti
An American rapper and songwriter, rose to prominence in the 2000s with a series of successful mixtapes. Gained widespread recognition with the release of the studio album 'I Am' in 2013, featuring the hit single 'Racks'. Established the record label Collective Music Group (CMG) and signed several notable artists. Has collaborated with various artists across the hip-hop genre and participated in numerous charitable endeavors.
Continue ReadingAlex Shibicky
Played professional ice hockey primarily for the New York Rangers and the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL. Recognized for contributions to the teams during the late 1930s and early 1940s. Served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II, which interrupted his hockey career. Returned to the NHL post-war and continued to play, leaving a mark in professional hockey.
Continue ReadingJojo Siwa
Gained prominence through participation in the reality TV series 'Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition' and the series 'Dance Moms.' Launched a successful YouTube channel that features dance tutorials, music videos, and vlogs. Released popular singles such as 'Boomerang,' which addresses themes of bullying and self-empowerment, amassing hundreds of millions of views. Known for a distinct fashion sense, often includes colorful hair bows. Also appeared in films and television, contributing to various children’s programming. Built a brand around merchandise including bows, clothing, and accessories.
Continue ReadingJames Watney
Born in 1832, a prominent English politician, brewer, and cricketer. Played first-class cricket for the Marylebone Cricket Club and the Sussex team. Contributed to the brewing industry through the establishment of Watney's brewery, which became a well-known name in England. Involved in local governance, serving as a Member of Parliament, influencing various legislative processes throughout the 19th century.
Continue ReadingJohn Vachon
Contributed to documentary photography through work with the Farm Security Administration during the Great Depression. Captured significant aspects of American life and culture, showcasing rural communities and their struggles. Later worked for numerous magazines, including Fortune and Life, demonstrating a range of styles in photojournalism. Involved in various photo exhibitions, preserving social history and poignant narratives through images.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 30th
Charles
A commander in the Austrian army and a duke, significantly contributed to military efforts during the Napoleonic Wars. Served as governor of various territories and engaged in strategic military planning. His leadership played a role in several key battles, particularly during the campaigns against Napoleon's forces. Oversaw military reorganizations that had lasting impacts on the Austrian military structure.
Continue ReadingMarie of the Incarnation
Established the Ursuline Monastery in Quebec, which played a significant role in the education of young girls in New France. Served as the first superior of the monastery and contributed to the spiritual and educational development of the community. Her writings provide valuable insight into the early history of Canada and the role of women in the church. Promoted the importance of education and religious instruction among Indigenous peoples.
Continue ReadingJohann Tserclaes
Served as a prominent general in the Thirty Years' War. Commanded the Catholic forces against Protestant armies in several key battles. Participated in the battles of White Mountain and Breitenfeld. Established a reputation for military strategy and leadership in the early 17th century.
Continue ReadingPramoedya Ananta Toer
An influential Indonesian author and academic contributed significantly to literature and historical narrative through novels and essays. Works often reflected socio-political themes and the struggles of the Indonesian people. Created a renowned tetralogy detailing the country's past through the eyes of its characters. Faced censorship and imprisonment due to political views but continued writing and advocating for democracy and human rights.
Continue ReadingAmalasuntha
Ruled as queen regent of the Ostrogoths in the 6th century. Served as regent for her son Athalaric after the death of her husband, Theodoric the Great. Focused on maintaining the Gothic kingdom's stability during her reign. Advocated for the education of her son and promoted literature and learning within her court. Ultimately faced political opposition, leading to her assassination.
Continue ReadingJoseph Leidy
Contributions to paleontology included the first scientific descriptions of numerous dinosaur fossils, as well as work on various prehistoric vertebrates. Leidy played a significant role in the development of comparative anatomy and paleontology in the United States. He served as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and was a key member of the Academy of Natural Sciences, influencing generations of scientists. His studies provided insights into the evolutionary history of life on Earth and advanced the understanding of extinct species.
Continue Reading