Warwick Davis strikes fun pose with a wand as he celebrates the opening of Universal Epic Universe in Orlando

Daily Mail​

22-05-2025

Warwick Davis struck a fun pose as he celebrated the opening of Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida on Wednesday.
The actor, 55, who played Professor Flitwick, Griphook and a Goblin Bank Teller in the Harry Potter franchise, brandished his wand from the films.
He wore a deep blue velvet blazer with smart navy trousers and a black T-shirt for the event.
To mark the opening of the fourth theme park at the Universal Orlando Resort, Warwick was joined by his former co-stars Oliver and James Phelps.
Oliver and James, who played Fred and George Weasley in the films, walked the blue carpet together.
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During the opening day the most popular ride quickly became Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
The new Harry Potter themed section will transport guests from 1920s Paris to the 1990s British Ministry of Magic, and also features more shops and restaurants.
Earlier this year, Warwick left BBC viewers 'absolutely sobbing' when he gave a heartfelt tribute to his late wife during his acceptance speech at the 2025 BAFTAs.
The actor was honoured with a BAFTA Fellowship, which recognises those who have made an 'outstanding and exceptional' contribution to the screen.
He fought back tears as he accepted the gong and dedicated it to his wife Samantha, who tragically died last year, visibly moving both the star-studded audience and viewers watching at home.
Warwick was presented the award by his former Harry Potter co-star Tom Felton, while the audience were shown a montage of scenes from his famous projects, interspersed with clips from his fellow stars and family, praising his talents.
Taking to the stage to a standing ovation, he began his speech: 'This is probably the best thing that has ever happened to me... and I've been in Star Wars!
'I'm going to keep this short, it's been a long night... short, yes you can laugh.'
Warwick went on: 'I'm going to say thank you to my mum, my first agent, she's the reason I am here tonight.'
He then thanked all his team who supported him throughout his career and shared the award with them, before amending: 'Sod that. I've done all the work, it's for me! This is all mine.'
While he then became emotional as he dedicated the award to his beloved wife, who passed almost one year ago at the age of 53.
Warwick said: 'Above all I would like to dedicate and thank my wonderful wife Sammy who died almost a year ago.
'She was always so supportive of my career and encouraged me to grab every opportunity with both hands.'
Samantha - who was herself an actor - had been married to Warwick for 33 years, welcoming three children together, before her devastating death on March 24.
Their daughter Annabelle, 27, and son Harrison, 21, were both seen crying in the audience as their dad thanked them helping him get through the tough year.