Gigantic 7ft actor too short to play Star Wars favourite Chewbacca

A SEVEN foot British actor was snubbed for a role in the new Star Wars film – because he was too short.

Lydon Sutcliffe, 27, revealed he auditioned to play hairy favourite Chewbacca in the sci-fi flick.

But movie bosses turned down the 7ft 1ins actor, claiming he was not tall enough.

He has now landed another role in the blockbuster but is sworn to secrecy about the part.

Lydon, from Cockerham, Lancs. said: “For the first time in my life, I was told I was too short.

“Peter Mayhew, who originally played Chewbacca was 7ft 3ins tall so they were looking for someone who was at least as tall as him.

“At 7ft 1ins, I just didn’t make the grade as I was a real shortie.”

Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens stars former cast members Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill and is set to be released in December.

Lydon played the part of Big Ant in Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway and was on TV gameshow Deal Or No Deal where he scooped £7,100.

The towering performer is now writing a book on the funny side of being tall and is being filmed taking part in an eating challenge for a telly show.

He has also spent the last six years working as a groundsman at Wimbledon during the tennis.

He added: “I really enjoyed my years of working at Wimbledon and I did miss not being there this year.

“However, I am just so busy with other stuff that I didn’t even have time to watch Wimbledon.

“I am really enjoying all the different kinds of work I am getting because of my height.

“I like using my body in any way I can apart from literally selling it.”