The make-up and effects artist who helped to create Star Wars characters such as Yoda, Chewbacca, Jabba the Hutt and the Ewoks, has died at the age of 98.

Freeborn's granddaughter Michelle confirmed that her father passed away in London on Tuesday.

"Stuart was already a make-up legend when he started on Star Wars," said George Lucas in a statement. "He brought with him not only decades of experience, but boundless creative energy. His artistry and craftsmanship will live on forever in the characters he created.

"His Star Wars creatures may be reinterpreted in new forms by new generations, but at their heart, they continue to be what Stuart created for the original films."

Freeborn was also instrumental in designing the background characters in the Mos Eisley Cantina bar scenes.

For more check out Digital Spy