New Chewy Alert! Meet the Basketball Star Taking Over for 'Star Wars' Legend Peter Mayhew in Han Solo Prequel

Check out the new man behind the Wookiee -- 29-year-old Finnish athlete Joonas Suotamo.

"I am profoundly grateful for this amazing opportunity to become a part of the Star Wars franchise that I have loved since my childhood," Suotamo wrote before thanking his family, friends, colleagues and singling out Mayhew.

"Chewbacca is one of the most iconic characters in the history of film, and Peter's development and portrayal of this beloved Wookiee has spread so much joy across the globe," he continued. "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."

Here it is #chewbacca #starwars

A post shared by Joonas Suotamo (@joonassuotamo) on Feb 21, 2017 at 9:35am PST

Who stole Chewie?! #fanboyexpo #fun #starwars #cutout

A post shared by Joonas Suotamo (@joonassuotamo) on Oct 30, 2016 at 1:31pm PDT

Big or small, it's the attitude that matters! Go tiny Empire troops! #small #helsingborg #sweden #starwars #chewbacca Photo by: @wohoo

A post shared by Joonas Suotamo (@joonassuotamo) on Oct 16, 2016 at 5:30am PDT

Thank you Helsingborg and the Rebel Legion for the Honorary Membership! I had a blast and hope to see you again soon. #helsingborg #sweden #starwars #rebellegion @officialrebellegion

A post shared by Joonas Suotamo (@joonassuotamo) on Oct 18, 2016 at 12:00pm PDT

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