Warwick Davis ‘sues London hospital’ over medical negligence claims following death of wife Samantha
Harry Potter and Star Wars actor Warwick Davis is taking legal action against a London hospital over alleged medical negligence following the death of his wife Samantha last year.
The 54-year-old star has instructed law firm Irwin Mitchell to represent his family after Samantha’s death in March 2024, aged 53.
Specialist medical negligence solicitor Madeline Nugent is working with the Davis family to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.
The case centres on treatment Samantha received at University College London Hospital for a spinal condition.
An inquest into Samantha’s death was due to take place on January 9 at Inner West London Coroner’s Court.
The hearing, which was set to be held remotely, was adjourned before any evidence could be presented.
Warwick Davis and his daughter Annabelle were scheduled to participate in the proceedings.
The family’s counsel, William Chapman, explained that Warwick was unable to connect to the planned virtual meeting.
The hearing has been postponed to ensure Warwick can fully contribute, with plans to reschedule “as quickly as possible”.
Coroner Mrs Jean Harkin stated the inquest would address questions about the circumstances surrounding Samantha’s death.
In 2019, Samantha Davis fell severely ill with sepsis, requiring intensive care treatment.
This followed operations on her spine that were carried out at University College London Hospital.
The inquest is expected to examine whether the treatment she received at the hospital for her spinal condition contributed to her death.
Following his wife’s death, Warwick Davis paid an emotional tribute to Samantha, whom he described as his “favourite human.”
“Her passing has left a huge hole in our lives as a family,” the actor said in a statement. “I miss her hugs.”
He spoke fondly of “Sammy,” as he called her, describing her as his “most trusted confidant and an ardent supporter of everything I did in my career”.
“She was a unique character, always seeing the sunny side of life she had a wicked sense of humour and always laughed at my bad jokes,” Davis added.
The couple’s children, Harrison and Annabelle, shared their own moving tribute, stating that “her love and happiness carried us through our whole lives”.
“Mum is our best friend and we’re honoured to have received a love like hers,” they added.
Samantha and Warwick’s love story began when she had an uncredited role in his 1988 film Willow.
The couple married in 1991 and had three children together – Lloyd, Harrison and Annabelle.
Tragically, their oldest child Lloyd passed away just nine days after birth.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Aisling Bea feared co-star ‘could die’ while filming Nick Frost horror Get Away after incidentRichard Hammond announces split from wife after 28 years as he issues candid statementSir Brian May, 77, ‘horrified’ as he shares concern over ‘dear friends’ involved in LA inferno
In a further tribute, Warwick highlighted Samantha’s profound impact on his career.
“Without Sammy, there would have been no Tenable quiz show, no Willow series. No Idiot Abroad Series 3,” he said.
He praised her dedication to helping others, noting: “She was passionate about helping people, without judgment.”
“She had time for everyone and a genuine listening ear,” he added.
With her by his side, Warwick felt unstoppable: “With her by my side, I was sure I could achieve anything, it was like having a super-power.”