Warwick Davis to Receive BAFTA Fellowship
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British actor and presenter Warwick Davis is set to receive the highest accolade from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA)—the Fellowship award. This honor, which recognizes exceptional contributions to film, television, or games, will be presented during the EE BAFTA Film Awards on February 16th, 2025.
Davis, known for his roles in iconic franchises such as Star Wars and Harry Potter, began his career at just 11 years old as Wicket the Ewok in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi. Handpicked by George Lucas, he quickly became a fan favorite. Over the years, he reprised his Star Wars role multiple times, most recently in The Rise of Skywalker (2019). He also starred in Willow (1988) and portrayed Professor Filius Flitwick in the Harry Potter series, cementing his place in cinematic history.
Born with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, a rare form of dwarfism, Davis has used his platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for inclusion. He founded Willow Management, an agency representing actors under 5 feet and over 7 feet tall, and co-founded Little People UK, a charity supporting people with dwarfism. His Reduced Height Theatre Company also provides opportunities for actors under 5 feet tall in screen arts.
“The Fellowship, to me, embodies the spirit of inclusivity, creativity, and collaboration that BAFTA stands for,” Davis shared. “This recognition is not just about the body of work I’ve contributed but also about the people who’ve stood by me and the audiences who have made this journey worthwhile. I accept this Fellowship in honor of everyone living with dwarfism or any form of difference, reminding us that our uniqueness can be our greatest asset.
BAFTA Chair Sara Putt praised Davis for his contributions, saying, “Warwick is a talented, much loved and truly inspiring figure who has captivated audiences over many decades. From his iconic performances to his advocacy for greater inclusion and representation on and off-screen, Warwick has had a remarkable impact on cinema and been profoundly influential in fostering a more inclusive and caring society.”
The BAFTA Fellowship has been previously awarded to industry legends such as Alfred Hitchcock, Judi Dench, Steven Spielberg, and Helen Mirren. Davis joins this prestigious list as a celebrated figure who has left an indelible mark on the industry.
The ceremony, hosted by David Tennant, will air on BBC One, iPlayer, and international broadcasters. Davis expressed his gratitude, saying he looks forward to “continuing to champion fresh perspectives, advocate for better representation, and inspire the next generation of storytellers to dream big.”
