
Simon Fisher-Becker, 'Harry Potter' and 'Doctor Who' actor, dies at 63
Simon Fisher-Becker, 'Harry Potter' and 'Doctor Who' actor, dies at 63
Simon Fisher-Becker, a British actor known for his roles on "Doctor Who" and in the first "Harry Potter" film, has died. He was 63.
Fisher-Becker's death was confirmed by his agency in a statement issued to USA TODAY on Monday.
"Today, I lost not only a client Simon Fisher-Becker, but a close personal friend of 15 years standing," the statement said. "I shall never forget the phone call I made to him when he was offered the part of 'Dorium' in Dr Who. He had been a fan of the show since he was a child.
"Simon was also a writer, a raconteur and a great public speaker. He helped me out enormously and was always kind, gracious and interested in everyone. My condolences go to his husband Tony, his brother, nieces and nephews and his legion of fans."
Fisher-Becker portrayed the Fat Friar, a ghost from Hufflepuff, who appeared in 2001's "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." In the film, he comes through the floor of the Hogwarts dining hall as several ghosts arrive, including Nearly Headless Nick.
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The actor also starred as Dorium Maldovar on the British sci-fi series "Doctor Who." He played the role in the fifth and sixth seasons of the modern reboot opposite Matt Smith's Doctor.
Fisher-Becker had additional roles on shows like "Puppy Love" and was a part of the ensemble of the 2012 "Les Misérables" film, according to IMDb.
Posts on Fisher-Becker's Facebook page showed he made frequent appearances at conventions to sign autographs for "Doctor Who" and "Harry Potter" fans. The actor's husband, Tony, announced his death on the Facebook page on Sunday.
I'm an adult and I just read the 'Harry Potter' series. Why it's not just for kids.
In an X post, actor Dominic G. Martin remembered Fisher-Becker as a "legend" in the "Doctor Who" fan community. "I never got to meet him properly, but friends who worked with him have nothing but lovely things to say," Martin said. "A real testament to his character. Farewell sir."
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