Chewbacca’s backstory and how he met Han Solo differs, depending on whether you want to follow Extended Universe stories, or a retold canon story from Solo: A Star Wars Movie. Here’s both varations.
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chewbacca |
| Species | Wookiee |
| Homeworld | Kashyyyk |
| Height | 7 feet 6 inches (2.29 meters) |
| Occupation | Smuggler, Rebel Alliance hero, co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon |
| Affiliation | Rebel Alliance, Resistance |
| Known For | Fiercely loyal friend and companion of Han Solo, expert marksman and mechanic |
| First Appearance | Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977) |
| Portrayed by | Peter Mayhew (Episodes IV-VII and Solo: A Star Wars Story), Joonas Suotamo (Episodes VII-IX and The Rise of Skywalker) |
Han Solo’s Desertion and Rescue of Chewbacca | Extended Universe
During an operation on Kashyyyk, Han Solo refused to follow orders to execute Wookiee prisoners, which resulted in him being forced to flee the planet and deserting the Imperial Navy. As a result, Han was marked as a deserter by the Empire, forcing him to go on the run as a smuggler.
While on the run, Han encountered Chewbacca again and offered to help the Wookiee escape from his life of slavery. In gratitude, Chewbacca swore a life debt to Han, becoming his loyal companion and co-pilot.
The Retelling in Solo: A Star Wars Story | Canon
In the film Solo: A Star Wars Story, Han Solo joins the Imperial Academy but is eventually expelled due to a series of misdeeds. Fate leads him to become an infantryman stationed at Camp Forward on Mimban, a planet where the Empire is conducting a military operation against the local Mimbanese population.
It is during this time that Han encounters Chewbacca, a fearsome creature with whom he initially has a tense encounter. However, circumstances change when Han finds himself thrown into a pit where the hungry ‘Beast’ resides.
To his surprise, the creature turns out to be Chewbacca. In a moment of survival instinct and desperation, Han speaks the Wookiee language, Shyriiwook, for the first time, proposing a mutual escape plan. This encounter sparks the beginning of a remarkable friendship that will endure throughout their future adventures.
Chewbacca’s Role in the Star Wars Films
Throughout the Star Wars franchise, Chewbacca plays a crucial role as Han Solo’s trusted partner and co-pilot. He is known for his strength and loyalty, often coming to the aid of his friends in moments of danger.
Chewbacca’s Character Development
Over the course of the Star Wars films, Chewbacca’s character undergoes significant development. He evolves from a loyal sidekick to a respected member of the Rebel Alliance, with his own personal motivations and relationships.
Chewbacca’s Memorable Moments
Chewbacca is known for his numerous memorable moments throughout the Star Wars films, such as his epic battle with a stormtrooper in A New Hope, his capture and subsequent rescue in The Empire Strikes Back, and his emotional reaction to the death of Han Solo in The Force Awakens.
Chewbacca’s Legacy
Chewbacca’s impact on the Star Wars franchise extends beyond just his character. He has become a pop culture icon and fan favorite, with his signature growl and distinctive appearance making him one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the Star Wars universe.
