Warwick Davis issues cryptic response as he’s quizzed on new love interest after wife’s death
Warwick Davis has opened up about finding love again following the death of his wife, Samantha, last year.
Davis, known for his roles in Harry Potter and Willow, spoke about a mystery woman whom he refers to as “Sponge”, who has helped him through his grief, during his recent appearance on The Jonathan Ross Show, which airs tomorrow.
Last month, Davis received the prestigious Bafta Fellowship award, the highest accolade bestowed by the academy and during his emotional acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to his late spouse, who died in March 2024 at age 53.
Warwick was presented the award by his former Harry Potter co-star Tom Felton, while the audience was shown a montage of scenes from his famous projects, interspersed with clips from his fellow stars and family, praising his talents.
During his speech, he praised his wife “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.
“Since then, life has been pretty tough for me but thanks to the support of our wonderful children Annabelle and Harrison, I’ve been able to continue working and engaging in life.”
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He also went on to thank the mystery woman “Sponge” and noted: “Special mention should go to Sponge, you know who you are. Thank you for showing me that life can still have meaning and for helping me to laugh and to love again.”
Speaking on the ITV talk show, Davis revealed more about the mystery woman’s identity and said: “I can reveal, sticking with the Harry Potter theme, Sponge is indeed She-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named,” he told Ross.
Davis added that “Sponge” reminds him of Daisy May Cooper’s character Kerry Mucklowe from BBC’s This Country: “Some of the things she says and her accent,” he explained, drawing parallels between the two.
Davis reflected on how supportive his late wife was throughout his career.
“When you go through your career as an actor, you sometimes become a bit reluctant to do certain jobs thinking another one will come along and be a bit better. She would always say ‘get out there and do it’.
“She was great at networking as well, always talking to producers and getting me the work in the next job. Very supportive. You need that in this business because it is difficult.
“You’ve got to have someone who is very supportive of you being away on occasions and working ridiculous hours.”
Samantha Davis passed away in April last year at the age of 53 after battling sepsis, meningitis and Strep B infections, with the couple co-founding the dwarfism charity Little People UK together.
The organisation provides “friendship and financial support and guidance” to people with the condition and their families.
Davis told Ross that life has been “pretty tough” since her passing, but he has been supported by their children, Annabelle and Harrison.
He appeared alongside guests Ashley Walters, Jodie Whittaker and Daisy May Cooper on the programme.
The Jonathan Ross Show featuring Warwick Davis will air on Saturday at 9.20pm on ITV and ITVX.