Warwick Davis was awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) on Wednesday. The honor was presented at Windsor Castle by Prince William as part of the 2026 New Year Honours. Known for roles in Star Wars and the Harry Potter series, Davis received the award for his contributions to entertainment and charitable work.
Warwick Davis speaking at the BAFTA Awards – BBC, YouTube
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According to The Mirror, Davis told Times Radio, “It’s a very dignified honor. It’s not like a BAFTA – it’s not big and shiny and show-bizzy.” He added, “It’s a quiet recognition of something that I’ve done in the past, my contribution to drama or entertainment and the charity work I’ve done.”
A Career Spanning Generations
Davis began his career at age 11, portraying the Ewok Wicket in Return of the Jedi. He continued working with Lucasfilm, starring in 1988’s Willow, which was directed by Ron Howard. Over the decades, Davis has appeared in numerous fantasy and science fiction projects, becoming a familiar presence in genre filmmaking and building a career that spans film, television, and hosting roles. Another generation discovered Davis when he portrayed Professor Flitwick in 2001’s Harry Potter and Sorcerer’s Stone. So far, he will be the only actor to reprise his role in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV series.
Warwick Davis in Willow – Rotten Tomatoes Coming Soon, YouTube
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In 2012, Davis and his late wife Samantha co-founded the charity Little People UK. The charity provides resources, support, and community for individuals with short stature. His efforts in raising awareness and promoting inclusion were cited as significant factors in the decision to award him the OBE. “I didn’t do any of what I do to get an award. I just do it because I enjoy doing it,” Davis said.
A Royal Moment at Windsor Castle
Ahead of the ceremony, Davis also shared details about his interactions with Prince William. The Prince of Wales reportedly asked Davis if he had already received the OBE. “I said no, no,” Davis said. “I worried that if I said yes — ‘Well, you’re not having this one’ — but he said, ‘I’m really surprised, I thought you had one already. You should have had one years ago,’ which is really nice.”
Prince William honours Warwick Davis — and other news in pictures https://t.co/itZWhIArWu
— The Times and The Sunday Times (@thetimes) March 12, 2026
At the ceremony, Prince William bent down to eye level with Davis. According to Hello!, the actor expressed his appreciation for the moment. “It was lovely the way he came down to my level instead of standing and looking down at me,” he said. Also in attendance were Davis’s two children, Annabelle and Harrison.
Warwick Davis – BAFTA, YouTube
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The OBE adds to a series of recognitions for Davis. In February 2025, Davis was given the BAFTA Fellowship. At the time, he said, “This is the best thing that’s ever happened to me and I’ve been in Star Wars.”
Recognition Beyond the Screen
While Davis’s film career spans decades and multiple generations of fans, the OBE highlights something beyond the screen. Through his advocacy and charity work, he has helped build support networks and visibility for people with dwarfism. For Davis, the award may be a quiet honor rather than a flashy one, but it reflects a long career defined not only by memorable roles, but by a commitment to using his platform to support others.
What do you think of Warwick Davis receiving the OBE? What is your favorite Warwick Davis movie? Let us know in the comments!
