Chewbacca isn’t Han Solo’s sidekick

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For nearly five decades, Star Wars enthusiasts have embraced an unwavering fact: Han Solo is the rough-edged smuggler with a swift spacecraft, while Chewbacca serves as his faithful companion. Yet, what if we’ve been mistaken all along? What if it was actually Chewbacca who owned Han Solo?

Indeed, it might seem absurd at first glance. However, take a moment to ponder deeper. Beyond the bluster and the heroism, the relationship between Han and Chewie appears less like “pilot and copilot” and more akin to “owner and pet” – but with roles reversed; Han is typically the one giving commands, while Chewbacca is the one following them.

Let’s break it down.

Chewie is clearly the adult in the room

Han Solo is the quick-witted, blunt, chattering rogue who’s always talking – almost incessantly. He’s impulsive, arrogant, and usually ends up causing more problems than solutions. It seems like it’s Chewbacca who’s always left to clean up the mess he creates. Time and again, we see the Wookiee trying to calm or deter Han with a growl and a sigh, but when Han pays no heed, Chewie simply follows him into chaos, saves him from trouble, and puts up with his antics like a patient golden retriever owner who knows better than to argue with their mischievous pet.

That’s not a sidekick. That’s a responsible caretaker.

Star Wars: A New Hope. Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew). Image Credit: StarWars.com

Look at the age difference

Wookieepedia states that Wookiees typically live well into their 400s, which is approximately five times the average human lifespan (excluding Han’s premature end at the hands of Kylo). When Chewbacca initially meets Han, he is already over 200 years old. This isn’t just two equals bonding; it’s an ancient battle-hardened warrior (remember, Chewie was part of the Clone Wars) taking under his wing a young, inexperienced individual who requires constant guidance. Throughout his life, Chewbacca has witnessed Order 66, survived imperial enslavement, and observed the rise and fall of numerous civilizations. Meanwhile, Han is still grappling with financial obligations.

If there’s anyone taking on a mature role in this situation, it certainly isn’t the one saying “Never tell me the odds.” That title goes to the tall, composed Wookiee standing beside him, who often saves Han from his own impulsive actions with a simple eye roll.

Loyalty beyond reason

It’s striking how devoted Chewbacca is to Han, almost as if he were a pet. Regardless of Han’s impulsive and self-centered behaviors, Chewie stands by his side in all situations, good or bad. This goes beyond friendship; it’s the kind of unwavering loyalty that can only be described as unconditional love. After all, how many of us would stay loyal to someone who has a fraction of our lifespan simply because they saved our life? But would you keep a charming puppy that behaves like a fierce wolf? Most definitely!

We’re deeply devoted to our pets. If my little Chihuahua were to set up a smuggling operation, I’d be fully supportive and involved. I’d take on the physical role, while she uses her cunning intellect. Should she possess a spaceship, it would only make this adventure more exciting!

Chewie doesn’t need Han. He chooses to stay.

Chewie adopts Rey

Following Han’s passing, Chewbacca experiences the typical grief that many pet owners go through – weeping, mourning, but eventually moving on to welcome a new companion. For Chewie, this new friend is Rey. This isn’t a new alliance as it may seem; rather, it’s an adoption. He recognizes in her a fellow scruffy, talkative, young individual who seems lost. She reminds him of Han, and thus, he invites her on board the Millennium Falcon, offers her a co-pilot’s seat, and by “The Rise of Skywalker,” he’s flying missions alongside her, much like an old protector watching over a maturing cub.

Just look at how he’s staring at her. He’s thinking, “Here we go again.”

Joonas Suotamo is Chewbacca, Oscar Isaac is Poe Dameron, Daisy Ridley is Rey and John Boyega is Finn in STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER

In my own words, although Han Solo appears as a dashing action hero with his strolls, dialogues, and gunplay, if you delve into his bond with Chewbacca, he seems more like a space-exploring companion providing emotional solace to me.

Chewbacca isn’t owned by Han; rather, Han is the owner of Chewbacca. In truth, this could very well be one of the most touching revelations in the entire Star Wars universe.

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2025-08-05 19:52