Joonas Suotamo, a Finnish actor and former professional basketball player, is best known for his portrayal of Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise. Born on October 3, 1986, in Espoo, Finland, Suotamo has made a name for himself in Hollywood with his iconic role.

Early Life and Career

Before he became an actor, Suotamo was a talented basketball player. He played for the Penn State Nittany Lions while attending Penn State University. However, his life took a different turn when he was cast as Chewbacca in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Playing Chewbacca

Suotamo took over the role of Chewbacca from Peter Mayhew in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He continued to portray the beloved character in Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Solo: A Star Wars Story. His dedication to the role and attention to detail have earned him praise from fans and critics alike.

Personal Life

In August 2017, Suotamo proposed to his long-term girlfriend, Milla Pohjasvaara. The couple welcomed their first child, Aatos, in February 2018. Despite his busy schedule, Suotamo makes sure to prioritize his family and spend quality time with them.

Appearances and Recognition

Suotamo has made appearances on various talk shows and events to promote the Star Wars franchise. He was a guest on WGN Morning News in May 2018, where he shared insights into his experience playing Chewbacca.

Conclusion

Joonas Suotamo's journey from a basketball player to a Hollywood actor is truly inspiring. His dedication to his craft and his portrayal of Chewbacca have endeared him to fans around the world. As he continues to make his mark in the entertainment industry, we can't wait to see what the future holds for this talented actor.