Peter Mayhew hospitalised for pneumonia

Peter Mayhew, the actor who played Chewbacca since the '70s in the 'Star Wars' films, has been hospitalised with pneumonia.

Mayhew, 70, cancelled an appearance at a comic book store in Texas over the weekend after falling ill, reported TMZ.

His wife has assured fans he is expected to make a full recovery.

"He will be discharged within a few days. Doctors are incredibly happy with his improvements," she said.

The British star will portray wookie Chewbacca in J J Abrams' upcoming 'Star Wars' sequel 'The Force Awakens'.