Chewbacca, Han Solo's loyal sidekick (who you must remember to always let win), was actually inspired by the faithful, furry companion of George Lucas. It was the director's dog, Indiana, who was behind the creation of one of Star Wars' best loved characters. She was an Alaskan Malamute, and would sit next to Lucas while he was writing, and also accompany him in the passenger seat of his car when he was driving around. It was the latter more specifically that inspired him to give Han a similarly hairy and loyal co-pilot. Of course, the name Indiana is very famous for another reason, and it was actually the inspiration for the name taken on by Dr Henry Jones, with the character actually stating he took it from the family dog he loved. One big dog, influences on two huge franchises. Man, and film's, best friend.
NCTJ-qualified journalist. Most definitely not a racing driver. Drink too much tea; eat too much peanut butter; watch too much TV. Sadly only the latter paying off so far.
A mix of wise-old man in a young man's body with a child-like wonder about him and a great otherworldly sensibility.
