The world of entertainment and the dwarfism rights community mourned the loss of Samantha Davis, actress, co-founder of Little People UK, and wife of renowned actor Warwick Davis. Samantha passed away on March 24, 2024, at the age of 53.
A Heartfelt Tribute: Warwick Davis Mourns His Soulmate
Warwick Davis, best known for his roles in films like “Willow” and the “Harry Potter” series, took to social media to express his grief over the loss of his wife. In a poignant statement released through Lucasfilm, Davis described Samantha as his “wife and soulmate, best friend, devoted mother, my favorite human, and most trusted confidant.” He further highlighted her unwavering support throughout his career, her infectious optimism, and her witty sense of humor.
Davis also acknowledged Samantha’s influence on his professional endeavors. He credited her with encouraging him to pursue projects like the quiz show “Tenable,” the revival of “Willow,” and his stint on the travel series “An Idiot Abroad.” With a touch of humor, he wrote, “Without Sammy, there would have been no Idiot Abroad series 3… I think she wanted me out of the house for a few weeks!”
The statement offered a glimpse into Samantha’s resilience in the face of health challenges. Despite experiencing mobility issues in recent years, she remained determined to live life to the fullest. Warwick concluded by expressing his hope that Samantha’s legacy of love, warmth, and generosity would continue to inspire others. He emphasized the profound impact she had on his life, stating, “I feel so fortunate I was able to be close to her and experience her magic for 35 years.”
A Shared Loss: Children Remember a Loving Mother
Samantha’s children, Annabelle and Harrison Davis, also released a heartfelt statement. They described their mother as “the kindest, most inspirational and loving Mumma we could have wished for.” They cherished her unwavering support, her willingness to listen, and her guidance throughout their lives. Their statement concluded with a powerful message of love and gratitude: “Mum is our best friend and we’re honored to have received a love like hers. Her love and happiness have carried us through our whole lives and will be what carries us forward now. Everything we do, we do for her.”
A Life Filled with Passion: Acting, Advocacy, and Family
Samantha’s career spanned film and television appearances. She met Warwick Davis while filming the fantasy adventure movie “Willow” in the late 1980s. Destiny brought them together again when they both secured roles in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” and “Leprechaun 2.” Beyond acting, Samantha shared a deep commitment to supporting the dwarfism community. Together with Warwick, they co-founded Little People UK, a charity dedicated to providing resources and advocacy for people with dwarfism.
A near-death experience with sepsis in 2019 highlighted Samantha’s strength and resilience. Warwick recounted the ordeal in a 2022 interview, describing the agonizing wait while she underwent surgery. He expressed his immense gratitude for her recovery and the unwavering love they shared.
Samantha Davis: A Legacy of Inspiration
Samantha Davis’ life serves as an inspiration on multiple levels. Her entertainment career showcased her talent and dedication to her craft. Her partnership with Warwick Davis demonstrated the power of love and support. Most importantly, her co-founding of Little People UK exemplifies her compassion and commitment to advocacy. Samantha’s legacy will continue to touch the lives of those who knew her personally and those inspired by her story.