Baftas 2025: Warwick Davis to receive fellowship
Star Wars and Harry Potter actor Warwick Davis will receive the prestigious Bafta Fellowship at 2025’s upcoming awards ceremony.
Davis, who was diagnosed with a rare form of dwarfism known as spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita at birth, is best known for playing the title role of Willow Ufgood in Ron Howard’s 1988 fantasy classic Willow. He is also beloved by fantasy and sci-fi fans for portraying Professor Filius Flitwick in the Harry Potter franchise and the Ewok Wicket in 1983’s Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi.
The actor has long made it his mission to help create a more inclusive movie industry environment for people like him. He founded Willow Management, a talent agency for actors under five feet and over seven feet tall, and co-founded the charity Little People UK, which financially supports and guides people with dwarfism and their families.
The Bafta Fellowship honours those who have “made an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, games or television.” BAFTA Chair Sara Putt said, “We are delighted to present Warwick Davis the Bafta Fellowship award; our highest honour. Warwick is a talented, much-loved and truly inspiring figure who has captivated audiences over many decades.”
Meanwhile, Davis said: “The Fellowship, to me, embodies the spirit of inclusivity, creativity, and collaboration that Bafta stands for. 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 honour of everyone living with dwarfism or any form of difference, reminding us that our uniqueness can be our greatest asset.”
He added, “I also want to acknowledge the wonderful colleagues and friends who’ve worked behind the scenes – costumers, makeup artists, camera crews – who quietly and tirelessly pour their hearts into every production. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this incredible honour. I look forward to continuing to champion fresh perspectives, advocate for better representation, and inspire the next generation of storytellers to dream big. Thank you, BAFTA, for believing in my journey.”
Davis will be awarded his prize on Sunday, February 16th, at the annual EE Bafta Film Awards, which will take place at Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall. Doctor Who icon David Tennant will host the event. The longlist of nominations was announced on January 3rd, and final nominations are set to follow on January 15th at 12pm GMT.
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