18 Surprising Facts About Joonas Suotamo

Joonas Suotamo: The Wookiee Behind Chewbacca

When it comes to iconic characters in the Star Wars universe, Chewbacca, the lovable Wookiee co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon, holds a special place in fans’ hearts. But did you know that the man behind the furry suit is Joonas Suotamo? In this article, we uncover 18 surprising facts about Joonas Suotamo that you may not be aware of. From his early life to his rise to stardom, let’s dive into the fascinating journey of the actor who brought Chewie to life.

A Former Basketball Star Turned Actor

Before entering the galaxy far, far away, Joonas Suotamo had basketball dreams. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 10 inches tall, he played for the Penn State Nittany Lions and even pursued a professional basketball career in Europe. However, destiny had a different path in store for him, and he transitioned from the court to the silver screen.

The First Steps into Chewbacca’s Shoes

Joonas Suotamo’s journey as Chewbacca began as a body double for Peter Mayhew in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. With his athletic build and towering stature, he perfectly embodied the physicality of Chewbacca. Little did he know that this role would catapult him into the spotlight and lead to much more than he could have ever imagined.

A Force to be Reckoned With

Following his portrayal as a body double, Joonas Suotamo took on the mantle of Chewbacca in Star Wars: The Last Jedi and continued the role in subsequent films such as The Rise of Skywalker and Solo: A Star Wars Story. Embracing the challenge, he infused his own personality into the character while staying true to Chewbacca’s iconic mannerisms and growls.

The Wookiee Mentorship

Joonas Suotamo had the incredible opportunity to learn from the legendary Peter Mayhew, who portrayed Chewbacca in the original Star Wars trilogy. Mayhew became Suotamo’s mentor, sharing invaluable insights on how to bring the beloved Wookiee to life on the screen. It was a passing of the torch moment that Suotamo will always cherish.

From Finland to a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Joonas Suotamo hails from Espoo, Finland, but his role as Chewbacca has taken him on an intergalactic adventure. Traveling the world, attending conventions, and meeting fans from all walks of life, Suotamo has become a global sensation and a treasured part of the Star Wars community.

A Multilingual Actor

Beyond his physicality, Joonas Suotamo is also fluent in several languages, including Finnish, Swedish, English, and German. This linguistic prowess has not only enhanced his acting career but also allowed him to connect with fans and colleagues from around the world.

Championing Disability Inclusion

Joonas Suotamo uses his position as a prominent actor to advocate for disability inclusion. His son, who was born with Down syndrome, has inspired him to raise awareness and promote acceptance. Suotamo encourages others to embrace diversity and create a more inclusive society.

A Passion for Writing

In addition to his acting talent, Joonas Suotamo has a passion for writing. He has contributed articles to various publications, sharing his thoughts on topics such as fatherhood, acting, and life in general. His introspective and thought-provoking pieces showcase another dimension of his creativity.

Bursting with Energy and Humor

On and off the screen, Joonas Suotamo is known for his infectious energy and sense of humor. Whether he is engaging with fans on social media or attending events, he brings a vibrant and joyful presence that endears him to the Star Wars community.

The Art of the Wookiee Walk

Perfecting Chewbacca’s distinctive walk was no easy feat, but Joonas Suotamo embraced the challenge. He extensively studied Peter Mayhew’s performance and practiced the Wookiee walk until he could effortlessly embody Chewbacca’s unique gait.

Balancing the Past and Present

As the torchbearer for Chewbacca, Joonas Suotamo had the delicate task of honoring Peter Mayhew’s legacy while making the character his own. With grace and respect, he seamlessly blended the beloved aspects of Mayhew’s portrayal with his own interpretations.

An Unexpected Journey into Filmmaking

Continuing his artistic exploration, Joonas Suotamo has also ventured into filmmaking. He wrote, produced, and starred in the short film “The Tower,” which showcases his versatility and creativity behind the camera.

A Global Ambassador for Star Wars

Joonas Suotamo has become a beloved ambassador for the Star Wars franchise, attending conventions and events worldwide to meet fans and share his experiences. His genuine warmth and gratitude towards the fandom have only deepened the connection between him and the Star Wars community.

Training Day and Night

To prepare for the physically demanding role of Chewbacca, Joonas Suotamo underwent intense training. From strength and endurance exercises to mobility drills, he dedicated himself to ensuring that he could embody the mighty Wookiee with authenticity.

Bringing Humanity to a Non-Human Character

Despite playing a non-human character, Joonas Suotamo understands the importance of bringing humanity and relatability to Chewbacca. He masterfully conveys emotions through physicality and expressions, making Chewbacca a beloved and deeply empathetic character.

A Humble and Grateful Star

Amidst the fame and success, Joonas Suotamo remains humble and deeply grateful for the immense opportunity to portray Chewbacca. He often expresses his appreciation to the fans and acknowledges the impact that the Star Wars universe has had on his life.

The Legacy Continues

Joonas Suotamo’s journey as Chewbacca may have come to an end with The Rise of Skywalker, but his contribution to the iconic character and the Star Wars saga will forever be remembered. His dedication and talent have solidified his place in Star Wars history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Joonas Suotamo is undoubtedly a multi-talented actor who has made a significant impact in the world of celebrity. From his impressive physicality as Chewbacca in the “Star Wars” franchise to his dedication to portraying the beloved character with authenticity, Suotamo has captivated audiences worldwide.Despite his relatively short time in the spotlight, Suotamo has managed to leave a lasting impression on fans and has shown immense potential for future success. With his undeniable talent, charming personality, and passion for his craft, there’s no doubt that we’ll continue to see Joonas Suotamo shine in the entertainment industry for years to come.

FAQs

Q: How tall is Joonas Suotamo?

A: Joonas Suotamo stands at an impressive 6 feet 11 inches (211 cm) tall, making him perfectly suited for the role of Chewbacca in the “Star Wars” franchise.

Q: Did Joonas Suotamo always play Chewbacca?

A: No, Joonas Suotamo initially served as Peter Mayhew’s double for Chewbacca in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015) and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” (2017), and eventually took over the full-time role starting with “Solo: A Star Wars Story” (2018).

Q: What other projects has Joonas Suotamo been involved in?

A: Apart from his iconic role as Chewbacca, Joonas Suotamo has appeared in films such as “The Rise of Skywalker” (2019) and “The Christmas Chronicles 2” (2020). Additionally, he has made television appearances on shows like “Good Morning America” and “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

Q: Is Joonas Suotamo active on social media?

A: Yes, Joonas Suotamo can be found on several social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, where he shares updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interacts with fans.

Q: Has Joonas Suotamo won any awards for his performances?

A: While Joonas Suotamo has not won any major awards himself, his work as Chewbacca has been widely praised, and he has been part of films that have garnered critical acclaim and received nominations for various awards.