This ‘Star Wars’ actor did the kindest thing for Daniel Fleetwood’s widow

Chewbacca is arguably one of the most beloved characters of the Star Wars franchise. Fiercely loyal to his best friend and co-smuggler, Han Solo, he’s definitely someone you’d want in your corner. Turns out the actor who plays him, Peter Mayhew, is just as kindhearted.

Peter Mayhew, who has played Chewbacca in every installment of the film franchise, welcomed Ashley Fleetwood and her father to his home in Texas over the holidays. The invite came just several weeks after the death of Ashley Fleetwood’s husband, Daniel.

Daniel Fleetwood had spindle cell sarcoma, a connective tissue cancer, and gained attention when his dying wish to see The Force Awakens went viral. He was not expected to live to see the film when it was released in theatres on December 18th.

Peter Mayhew was one of several Star Wars cast members to support #ForceForDaniel, a campaign to allow Daniel to see the movie before he succumbed to his illness. Other stars from the film franchise, such as Mark Hamill and John Boyega, were also in support of the campaign, both retweeting messages with the hashtag #ForceForDaniel.

In early November, director J.J. Abrams personally called Daniel and Ashley Fleetwood to let them know their wish would be granted. They were allowed to screen an unedited version of the film on November 5th. Daniel passed away just five days after seeing the film. Mayhew had originally invited the Fleetwoods to his home before Daniel passed away, but Daniel was unable to make the trip due to his failing health.