The father of Yoda, Chewbacca and Jabba the Hutt, Stuart Freeborn dies aged 98

THE MASTER MAKEUP ARTIST behind some of science fiction's greatest heroes and villains, Stuart Freeborn has died aged 98.

Freeborn died on Tuesday in London, his hometown, from a combination of age related ailments.

Considered a master of his craft, Freeborn worked on some of the greatest sci-fi films ever made, including 2001, A Space Odyssey, Dr Strangelove and the Star Wars films.

In Star Wars he reportedly designed from the ground up the look and technology used to animate some of the series' most memorable characters, including the sage green goblin Jedi Master Yoda.

However, for us here at The INQUIRER one particular Wookie created by Freeborn always holds a truly special place in our heart.

Hairy, bad tempered and prone to outbursts of violent rage, we speak of course of Chewbacca, one of the most memorable Star Wars characters.

In honour of Freeborn, The INQUIRER editor Madeline Bennett temporarily stepped down from her role, handing control over to the iconic space adventurer.

There were some initial language issues with Chewie's opening instruction "AUGUUUGUUUGUUUGRRRGHHHHH," leaving the editorial staff at a loss at what their new editor was saying.

However things soon picked up after interpreter droid C-3PO offered his services.

"Goodbye Freeborn, may the force be with you," said Chewbacca, translated by C-3PO. µ