Washington: Warwick Davis, the acclaimed actor renowned for his roles in the Harry Potter and Star Wars franchises, is set to receive the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship at the upcoming EE BAFTA Film Awards on February 16, 2025. This fellowship is BAFTA’s highest honor, awarded to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the film, television, or gaming industries.
Davis is celebrated for his performances as Professor Filius Flitwick in the Harry Potter series and Wicket the Ewok in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983). His work has established him as a household name, and the BAFTA organization announced this honor via their official Instagram account.
In his heartfelt remarks, Davis expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the importance of inclusivity and representation in the entertainment industry. He dedicated the fellowship to those living with dwarfism or any form of difference, highlighting how unique qualities can be one’s greatest asset. He also acknowledged the behind-the-scenes teams—like makeup artists and camera crews—who contribute significantly to productions.
Davis’s career spans several decades, and he was diagnosed with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, a rare type of dwarfism. He founded Willow Management, which represents actors under five feet tall, and co-founded Little People UK, a charity that supports individuals with dwarfism. His Reduced Height Theatre Company also aims to assist actors who don’t fit traditional casting norms.
In addition to his notable roles in Harry Potter and Star Wars, Davis starred in Ron Howard’s Willow (1988) and appeared in the British series Life’s Too Short (2011-2013), co-created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. BAFTA Chair Sara Putt expressed her excitement in honoring Davis, noting his beloved and inspiring status both in the UK and internationally. She stated, “Warwick is a talented, much-loved and truly inspiring figure who has captivated audiences over many decades,” and expressed anticipation for celebrating his incredible achievements during the awards ceremony.
Davis joins an esteemed list of previous BAFTA Fellowship recipients, which includes legendary filmmakers like Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg, and Martin Scorsese, as well as iconic actors such as Judi Dench, Sean Connery, and Elizabeth Taylor.