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David Holmes began his journey into the world of magic and daring stunts at the young age of 17, serving as the stunt double for Harry Potter in the film series. Hailing from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, the skilled gymnast took on the physically risky feats that the 11-year-old star Daniel Radcliffe could not perform. Tragically, during the filming of the seventh installment of the series in January 2009, Holmes suffered a devastating injury when he was pulled back abruptly on a harness, resulting in paralysis at just 24 years old. In his own reflections, Holmes shares how the accident, though life-altering, did not change who he is and how both his friendship with Radcliffe and a new role in a Harry Potter audiobook have helped him find solace.
Holmes looks back fondly on his time working on the Harry Potter films, describing it as the best experience of his life. He recalls being the first actor to perform Quidditch scenes on a broomstick for the movies. One harrowing moment stands out to him: during a scene where Harry battles a snake, Holmes remembers hitting a wall and immediately knowing he had broken his neck. Despite losing ten years of his life to the injury, Holmes emphasizes that he has never held bitterness or blame. He acknowledges the inherent risks of his profession and accepts that the accident was beyond his control. Importantly, he values the joy and comfort the films continue to bring to fans worldwide, including his partner Rosie, who also lives with quadriplegia. Holmes finds meaning in knowing that the stories helped Rosie during tough times long before they met.
Following his accident, Holmes chose not to seek legal action, instead concentrating on his recovery. He notes that the studio’s insurance covered his expenses and that many others facing hardship do not have such support, which influenced his decision. Over the years, Holmes has faced additional medical challenges, including major spinal surgery that has introduced uncertainty about his future abilities like speech and breathing. Prior to undergoing surgery, he created a short video detailing his contribution to the Harry Potter films as a personal testament. Encouraged by Radcliffe, Holmes shared his journey in the documentary *David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived*. Although he has yet to watch it, he sees it as a vital step in embracing his identity as a person living with a severe disability and using his platform to raise awareness about accessibility issues and the challenges disabled individuals face in society.
Recently, Holmes has returned to the Harry Potter universe in a new way by lending his voice to the character Stan Shunpike, the conductor of the Knight Bus, for the upcoming audiobook version of *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*. It was an emotional full circle moment for him, especially since he originally performed stunts for the same film’s bus sequences. Holmes appreciates the opportunity to represent a character with a vibrant personality and notes the significance of having a disabled actor included in the series’s extended storytelling. Beyond this role, he aspires to expand his work in voice acting, using his voice as a creative outlet. Holmes also dedicates time to organizing annual cricket matches featuring Harry Potter cast members, raising funds for the spinal injury center where he receives treatment. Driven by his experiences, he is developing a children’s book about a teenage stunt performer and plans to create inclusive events that celebrate disabled communities. Through it all, he remains proud of maintaining his spirit and personality despite his injury and encourages others to cherish their health with daily gratitude
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