Star Wars actor Warwick Davis pays tribute to his wife, Samantha, who's died aged 53
In a statement he confirmed his wife, Samantha, died last month
Last updated 18th Apr 2024
Samantha Davis, the wife of Star Wars and Harry Potter actor Warwick Davis, has died aged 53.
Warwick announced the news in a statement shared to the BBC, revealing she had died on March 24th.
Samantha co-founded the dwarfism charity Little People UK and featured in the final Harry Potter film, alongside Warwick.
“Her passing has left a huge hole in our lives as a family. I miss her hugs,” Warwick said in the statement to the BBC.
He added that she was his “most trusted confidant and an ardent supporter of everything I did in my career”.
The actor continued: “She was a unique character, always seeing the sunny side of life she had a wicked sense of humour and always laughed at my bad jokes.”
The couple met on the set of George Lucas’s film Willow and married three years later in 1991.
Samantha also played a goblin in Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 while her husband played both Professor Flitwick and the goblin Griphook in all eight films in the franchise.
Their two children together, Annabelle and Harrison, also paid tribute to their mother, saying: “Her love and happiness carried us through our whole lives”
“Mum is our best friend and we’re honoured to have received a love like hers.”
In an interview with People in 2022, Warwick opened up about the grief he and Samantha went through after their first son died shortly after he was born due to complications from the dwarfism genes he inherited from both of his parents.
He told the US outlet: “I think it brings you closer together, or something like that. But it’s an experience I wouldn’t wish on anyone. It’s devastating.”
A few years later they experienced more heartbreak when Samantha had a miscarriage with their second child.
They later welcomed their daughter Annabelle and son Harrison, with Warwick saying the couple loved their children “all that more because they’re here with us”.
Annabelle, 27, has followed in her parents’ acting footsteps, starring in CBBC’s The Dumping Ground and Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks.
Warwick starred as the titular hero Willow Ufgood in the 1988 original film Willow and reprised the role for the 2022 sequel.
He also played several characters in the Star Wars film series.
Samantha and Warwick co-founded Little People UK in 2012 to help individuals with dwarfism and their families.
Other famous faces we've lost this year:
Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role as Mrs Banks in the 1964 film, sadly died at the age of 100 in January. Mitch Clem, her manager, said she's passed "peacefully" in Los Angeles.
Derek Draper
Kate Garraway announced on 5th January that her beloved husband Derek Draper had sadly passed away, after suffering a cardiac arrest in early December.
She wrote on Instagram: 'I'm sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications. Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed. I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible. Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.' (sic)
David Soul
Actor and singer David Soul sadly died at the age of 80 in early January. He was best known for his role as Detective Kenneth 'Hutch' Hutchinson in the television series Starsky & Hutch, but also had a string of music hits in the 70s.
Christian Oliver
German actor Christian Oliver, famous for his role in Speed Racer, was tragically killed alongside his two daughters in a helicopter crash in the Caribbean. The pilot was also sadly killed in the crash, which happened in January.
JPR Williams
Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams sadly died at the age of 74 in January. It's understood he passed away in hospital surrounded by his family after short illness battling bacterial meningitis.
Adan Canto
Designated Survivor and X-Men actor Adan Canto sadly passed away in January at the age of 42, following a battle with cancer. In a statement, his publicist Jennifer Allen said: "Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many."
Georgina Hale
Bafta-winning actress Georgina Hale, best known for her role in Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 80 in January. Tributes poured in for the popular actress, who also appeared in Doctor Who, Budgie, One Foot in The Grave, Minder, The Bill and A Rather English Marriage.
Annie Nightingale CBE
Annie Nightingale, trailblazing presenter and DJ, sadly died at the age of 83 in January, following a short illness. Her family confirmed the news in a statement, where they described her a "pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many."
Lynne Marta
Footloose, Joe Kidd and Starsky & Hutch actress Lynne Marta sadly passed away at the age of 78 in January, following a short battle with cancer. Marta's friend Chris Saint-Hilaire confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Martin McCallum
British theatre director Martin McCallum, best known for shows such as Cats and Les Miserables, sadly passed away at the age of 73 in January, peacefully and surrounded by his beloved family.
Frank Farian
The founder of 'Daddy Cool' band Boney M, Frank Farian sadly passed away at the age of 82 in January. The German music producer, who founded the band back in 1974, died peacefully in his Miami apartment according to his representatives.
Mummy Pat Webb
Gogglebox star Pat Webb sadly died at the age of 75 in January following a long illness. Her son Stephen who she appeared alongside between series 10-12, announced the news on social media, with Gogglebox bosses also paying tribute to her online.
Chita Rivera
Broadway legend Chita Rivera sadly passed away at the age of 91 in January. Famed for roles such as Anita in West Side Story, Velma in Chicago and Rose in Bye Bye Birdie, Chita won many awards throughout her amazing career.
Jonnie Irwin
After being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2020, and it later spreading to his brain, TV presenter Jonnie Irwin sadly passed away at the age of 50 in February. His family released a statement to confirm the sad news, with tributes pouring in from the world of entertainment.
Carl Weathers
American actor Carl Weathers, best known for playing the role of Apollo Creed in the Rocky films franchise, sadly passed away at the age of 76 in February. According to a statement by his family, Carl died peacefully in his sleep.
Aston Barrett
The bassist of reggae band Bob Marley and the Wailers, Aston Barrett, sadly died at the age of 77 in February. Announcing his passing in a statement, his family revealed he'd had a 'long medical battle', but didn't confirm his cause of death.
Ian Lavender
Dad's Army actor Ian Lavender, best known for playing the role of Private Pike in the hit sitcom, sadly died at the age of 77 in February. He was the last surviving member of the main cast.
Michael Jayston
Actor Michael Jayston, best known for roles in Doctor Who and Only Fools and Horses, sadly died in February following a short illness. Michael's agent confirmed the news, saying: "It is with great sadness that I have been asked by his family to share the news Michael Jayston sadly passed away this morning (Monday) after a short illness.
"Those who knew Michael will know he was full of love, laughs and happiness. He adored meeting his fans all over the world. His family and friends would appreciate privacy at this time."
Toby Keith
Country music legend Toby Keith sadly died at the age of 62 in February, following a battle with stomach cancer.
Steve Wright
Legendary broadcaster Steve Wright sadly died at the age of 69 in February. In a statement shared with the BBC, Steve's family said: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright."
Tributes poured in for the broadcaster from around the world, with fellow presenters Ken Bruce, Simon Mayo and Tony Blackburn all sharing their fond memories.
Robin Windsor
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor sadly passed away at the age off 44 in February. Robin appeared on the show between 2010-2012, working with the likes of Deborah Meaden, Lisa Riley, Anita Dobson and Patsy Kensit. Tributes have poured in for Robin from the world of entertainment.
Ewen Macintosh
Actor Ewen Macintosh, best known for playing the role of Keith in The Office, sadly passed away at the age of 50 in February. His management confirmed the news in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
John Savident
Actor John Savident, best known for playing the role of Fred Elliott in Coronation Street between 1994 and 2005, sadly passed away at the age of 86 in February. His agent confirmed the news, saying: "We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday. He was a much-loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him."
Chris Nicholl
Former Southampton, Aston Villa and Northern Ireland defender, Chris Nicholl, sadly died at the age of 77 in February. Chris had been living with dementia, specifically chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which he attributed to brain damage caused by repeatedly heading balls over his lengthy career.
Kenneth Mitchell
Actor Kenneth Mitchell, who appeared in Captain Marvel and a Star Trek series, sadly died at the age of 49 in February. Kenneth was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease five and a half years ago.
Dave Myers
Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers passed away on 28th February at the age of 66, after a two-year battle with cancer. The TV star's co-star Si King announced the sad news on social media.
Cat Janice
Singer Cat Janice, whose song 'Dance You Otta My Head' went viral on TikTok after she dedicated it to her beloved son, sadly lost her battle with a rare form of cancer in February. Her family announced the sad news in a post on Instagram.
Eric Carmen
American singer Eric Carmen, best known for his tracks 'Hungry Eyes' and 'All By Myself', sadly died at the age of 74 in March. Eric, who rose to fame with the Raspberries, passed away in his sleep, as confirmed by his beloved wife in a statement.
Karl Wallinger
The Waterboys and World Party singer Karl Wallinger sadly passed away at the age of 66 in March. The musician's publicist confirmed the news in a statement, with musicians around the world paying tribute to Karl.
M Emmet Walsh
Actor M Emmet Walsh, who starred in movies such as Blade Runner and Knives Out over his six-decade career, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in March. A statement from his manager confirmed he suffered a cardiac arrest at Kerbs Memorial Hospital in St Albans, Vermont.
George Gilbey
Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother star George Gilbey sadly passed away at the age of 40 in March 2024, following a tragic accident in his workplace. Gogglebox bosses paid tribute to George on Instagram, writing; 'George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and step-dad Pete.
'Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Linda, and George's family and friends at this very sad time. The family have asked for privacy.'
Chance Perdomo
Actor Chance Perdomo, who was best known for his roles in Gen V and the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, sadly died in March at the age of 27, following a motorbike accident. Tributes from around the world poured in for the actor following the sad news.
Gerry Conway
Fairport Convention drummer Gerry Conway sadly passed away at the age of 76 in March, following a battle with motor neurone disease. His bandmates confirmed the news via a statement, with tributes pouring in from around the world.
Adrian Schiller
Death In Paradise and The Last Kingdom actor Adrian Schiller died 'suddenly and unexpectedly' at the beginning of April. His agent Scott Marshall Partners announced the sad news, saying in a statement: 'He has died far too soon, and we, his family and close friends are devastated by the loss.'
OJ Simpson
American Footballer turned actor O.J. Simpson, sadly died aged 76 in April, following a battle with cancer. His family confirmed the news of his death on X, formerly Twitter, saying he has 'succumbed to his battle with cancer.'
Mike Pinder
Mike Pinder, one of the founding members of rock band The Moody Blues, sadly died at the age of 82 in April. The keyboardist died at his home in California, but his cause of death has not been announced.
Brian McCardie
Scottish actor Brian McCardie died suddenly at the age of 59 at the end of April, with his wife confirming the sad news online. Brian had an remarkable career, appearing in movies such as Speed 2: Cruise Control and Rob Roy, and TV shows such as Time, Line of Duty and Snatch.
Richard Tandy
Long-time Electric Light Orchestra keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist Richard Tandy sadly died at the age of 76 at the start of May. ELO lynchpin Jeff Lynne broke the news of Tandy's passing with a statement on social media.
Bernard Hill
Bernard Hill played King Théoden in Peter Jackson's The Lord of The Rings films, after originallyrising to fame back in 1982 on the BBC TV drama Boys from the Blackstuff. He also appears in the current series of The Responder. Bernard sadly passed away on Sunday 5th May at the age of 79.
Kris Hallenga (founder of CoppaFeel!)
Kris Hallenga, the founder of CoppaFeel! sadly died at the age of just 38 in May 2024. Kris founded the charity after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer at the age of just 23. Since her diagnosis, she campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of breast cancer.
A statement on the charity's website said: "She hasn't lost a battle, she wasn't in a fight and she certainly wouldn't want you to see her death as tragic. She was simply living. She was 38 and died with fulfilment and a heart full of love."
Ian Gelder
Ian Gelder passed away in May 2024 at the age of 74, having been diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December 2023. His death was confirmed by his husband, The Crown actor Ben Daniels, who took to Instagram to share the sad news.
He wrote: 'It is with huge huge sadness and a heavy heart broken into a million pieces that I'm leaving this post to announce the passing of my darling husband and life partner Ian Gelder. He was my absolute rock and we'd been partners for more than 30 years. If we weren't together we spoke to each other every day.'
As well as being a prolific stage actor, Ian was best known for his role on Game of Thrones as Kevan Lannister, the brother of Tywin Lannister who was portrayed by Charles Dance.
Susan Buckner
Grease star Susan Buckner passed away in May 2024. A statement from her daughter, Samantha Mansfield, described her as "magic" and added: "The light she brought into every room will be missed forever." Among those who paid tribute to Susan, who starred as Patty Simcox in the 1978 film, was her Grease co-star John Travota, who wrote: 'Susan, you made Grease that much more special! We will miss you!'
Sam Rubin
Hollywood reporter Sam Rubin, who often appeared on This Morning, sadly passed away at the age of 64 in May. This Morning paid a tribute to Sam, saying: "He woke up Tinseltown every day for decades with his likeable charm and knowledgeable take on the movie world, he was on first name terms with the stars and became affectionately known as 'Hollywood Sam'. We will miss him."
David Sanborn
Revered jazz saxophonist David Sanborn, who worked with a smorgasbord of rockers including David Bowie, Eagles, Bruce Springsteen and The Rolling Stones, sadly died at the age of 78 in May, following an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.
Gudrun Ure
Scottish actress Gudrun Ure, who starred in the 1980s children's show Super Gran, sadly died at the age of 98 in May. Gudrun became a household name bringing the character of Granny Smith, created by author Forrest Wilson, to the small screen.
Charlie Colin (Train)
Founding member of the band Train, Charlie Colin died age 58 in May. The guitarist was part of the band until 2005, before leaving he had co-written their album 'My Private Nation' released in 2003, as well as co-writing and performing their breakthrough song 'Drops of Jupiter' in 2001.
Richard M Sherman
Songwriter Richard M Sherman, best known for writing over 150 songs for Disney movies, including Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, sadly died at the age of 95 in May, due to an age-related illness.
Elizabeth MacRae
American actress Elizabeth MacRae, who starred in shows such as General Hospital and Gomer Pyle, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in May.
Colin Gibb (Black Lace)
Founder member of Black Lace, Colin Gibb passed away at the age of 70 in June. The star had been in the band since it was created in 1976.
Nicholas Ball
Actor Nicholas Ball, who appeared in shows such as Footballers' Wives and Hazell, as well as playing the role of gang lord Terry Bates in BBC soap EastEnders, sadly passed away at the age of 78 in June, following a short illness. His agent confirmed the sad news in a statement.
Dr Michael Mosley
TV doctor Michael Mosley had been holidaying on the Greek island of Symi in the Dodecanese Island archipelago with his wife, when he went for a walk and went missing on 5th June. Following an extensive search, Michael's body was sadly found in the Agia Marina in the north of the island on 9th June.
Michael's wife Dr Clare Bailey Mosley said at the time: " "I don't know quite where to begin with this. It's devastating to have lost Michael, my wonderful, funny, kind and brilliant husband."
Paul Spencer (Dario G)
Nineties dance star Paul Spencer, from the trio Dario G, sadly died at the age of 53 in June. The musician revealed in an online post last year that he had stage four rectal cancer and a shadow on his liver.
Donald Sutherland
Canadian actor Donald Sutherland, best known for his roles in things like The Hunger Games, MASH, Kelly's Heroes and the 70s version of Invasion of the Bodysnatchers, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in June, following a long illness.
Bill Cobbs
American actor Bill Cobbs, best known for roles in Night at the Museum, Demolition Man and The Bodyguard, sadly passed away at the age of 90 in June. The actor died peacefully in his sleep at his home in California.
Shannen Doherty
Actress Shannen Doherty, known for her roles on 90210 and Charmed, passed away after battling breast cancer since 2015. Shannen's publicist Leslie Sloane said: "It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease."
Bob Newhart
American comedian and actor Bob Newhart sadly died at the age of 94 in July, following a series of short illnesses. Bob appeared in The Big Bang Theory and also played the role of the diminutive dad of adopted full-size son Will Ferrell in the movie Elf.
Ray Reardon MBE
Six-time world snooker champion Ray Reardon sadly passed away at the age of 91 in July, following a lengthy cancer battle.
Roberta Taylor
Actress Roberta Taylor, best known for her roles as Inspector Gina Gold in The Bill and Irene Raymond in EastEnders, sadly passed away at the start of July at the age of 76. Tributes poured in for Roberta from the world of entertainment.
John Mayall
The British blues musician John Mayall died peacefully aged 90 at his home in California in July. Often described as the godfather of British blues, his Bluesbreakers band involved Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac's Peter Green, Mick Fleetwood and John McVie.
Janet Andrewartha
Actress Janet Andrewartha, best known for playing the role of Lyn Scully in Australian soap Neighbours, sadly died at the age of 72 in July. The Neighbours social media accounts announced the sad news, paying tribute. The post read: 'Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street's Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner.'
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Former England football manager Sven-Göran Eriksson sadly passed away at the age of 76 in August, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. The Swede, who managed the likes of David Beckham, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, admitted at the start of 2024 he only had a year to live "at best". Following his passing, tributes poured in from around the world.
Fatman Scoop
American rapper Fatman Scoop sadly died at the age of 53 at the end of August. The performer, whose real name was Isaac Freeman, had been performing at an event in Connecticut in the United States on Friday (August 30th) when he collapsed on stage.
Sol Bamba
Former footballer Sol Bamba passed away at the age of 39 in August. The former Cardiff, Middlesbrough and Leicester defender was working as a technical director at Turkish side Adanaspor, when he fell ill before a match and was taken to hospital.
A statement from the club said: "Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there.
"Our condolences to his family and our community."
Herbie Flowers
Esteemed bass guitarist Herbie Flowers, who worked with an array of rock icons, sadly died aged 86 in September 2024. A statement issued by a family member on Facebook read: 'While we knew and loved him as Uncle Herbie, his musical contributions have likely touched your lives as well. He played bass on many of the songs from the golden age of rock.
'As a studio musician in London in the 60s and 70s he got to know and contribute to the music of Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Marc Bolin, Cat Stevens, Harry Nilsson, Al Kooper, Melanie and many other popular musicians.'
James Earl Jones
Actor James Earl Jones, known around the world for being the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars, and Mufasa in Disney's 1994 film The Lion King, sadly died at the age of 93 in September. Tributes from around the world of entertainment poured in for the actor following the news.
Tito Jackson
Original member of The Jackson 5, Tito Jackson, sadly died at the age of 70 in September. His three sons announced the sad news in a statement, writing: 'We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their wellbeing.'
Dame Maggie Smith
Harry Potter and Downton Abbey actress Dame Maggie Smith sadly passed away at the age of 89 on Friday 27th September. Her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin confirmed she died peacefully in hospital. They said in a statement: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
Kris Kristofferson
Grammy-winning singer and actor Kris Kristofferson sadly died at the age of 88 in late September. The American country star died "peacefully" at home in Maui, according to a statement issued on behalf of his family.
Cissy Houston
Grammy Award-winning singer Cissy Houston - mother of the legendary Whitney Houston - sadly died in early October 2024 surrounded by family in her New Jersey home, at the age of 91, having been under hospice care for Alzheimer's disease. On top of being the mother of the late Whitney Houston, Cissy was famed for her back-up singing for the likes of Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, as well as her vocals featuring on records with names such as Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Jimi Hendrix, Luther Vandross, Beyonce, and even her daughter, Whitney. Her daughter-in-law said: "Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family. Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives... Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts."
Alex Salmond
The former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond sadly passed away at the age of 69 in October, just hours after giving a public speech in North Macedonia. Following his sudden death, Alex's family released a statement, with tributes pouring in from the world of politics and royalty.
Liam Payne
One Direction singer Liam Payne sadly died at the age of just 31 in October, following a fall from a hotel balcony whilst he was on holiday in Argentina. Following the shock news, tributes poured in for Liam from around the world of entertainment, with his former One Direction band mates Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, all posting their own personal tributes.
Geoff Capes
Former strong man and British shot put record holder Geoff Capes sadly died at the age of 75 in October. His family confirmed the news of his death stating: "The family of Geoffrey Capes would like to announce his sad passing today, 23rd October. Britain's finest shot putter and twice world's strongest man."
Quincy Jones
Music producer Quincy Jones, who was known for his work with Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra, sadly died at the age of 91 in early November. In a statement, his family said: "Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones' passing. And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him."
Trevor Sorbie
Scottish-born stylist Trevor Sorbie, who gained fame with the creation of the wedge cut as well as his TV appearances, sadly died in November, just weeks after revealing he only had little time left after his bowel cancer had spread to his liver.
Timothy West
Actor Timothy West, well known for his roles on TV and theatre as well as his marriage to Prunella Scales, sadly died at the age of 90 in November. His family said he died peacefully in his sleep "with his friends and family at the end."
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