BAFTA watchers were in tears as Warwick Davis gave a heartfelt tribute to his late wife Samantha, who died last year.
The actor confessed that ‘life has been quite challenging’ after his wife’s passing but added, “Thanks to the support of our wonderful children, I’ve been able to keep engaging in life.”
Davis sobbed on stage, and his children appeared to be distressed in the audience.
He also mentioned his late wife, saying, “She always supported my career, encouraging me to seize every opportunity.”
See the complete speech below:
Davis was there to accept a ‘BAFTA Fellowship,’ which the awards ceremony touted as their ‘highest accolade.'”.
They clarified, “As our highest accolade, the BAFTA Fellowship recognizes those who have made an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, games, or television.”
The poignant statement moved several viewers to tears, with one stating, “Oh no, Warwick Davis got me crying.”
Another said, “Warwick Davis and his kids have me BAWLING.”
A third person responded, “I’m not normally an emotional one, but Warwick Davis just awww 🥺🥺🥹🥹🥺🥺💔 Well deserved.”
The iconic actor got his fellowship not just for his illustrious career, which included roles in Harry Potter, Star Wars, Willow, and many others, but also for his efforts to assist other performers with dwarfism.
Last year, the actor posted a statement confirming the death of his wife Samantha at the age of 53.
He stated, “My wife and soulmate, greatest friend. My devoted mother is my favorite human. My most loyal confidant and unwavering supporter of all I achieved in my career has died.
“The most open and kind person I’ve ever known. Her death has left a great void in our family’s life. I miss her embraces.
Tearing up over Warwick Davis receiving the fellowship at the #BAFTA2025… pic.twitter.com/Yqj4W2XB4N
— Jay Thomas (@GroundhogJay_) February 16, 2025
She was a remarkable individual who consistently found the positive aspects of life. She had a terrible sense of humor and would laugh at my lousy jokes. With her at my side, I knew I could do anything.
“It was like having superpowers. Without Sammy, there would be no Tenable Quiz Show or Willow Series.
“No Idiot Abroad Series III.” She proposed that Ricky Gervais send me out with Karl; I believe she wanted me out of the home for a few weeks!”
Samantha had sepsis in 2019 as a result of a mishap after spine surgery, which put her life at risk.
She died in 2024. Davis has filed a lawsuit against University College London Hospital, where Samantha underwent surgery.