Daniel Radcliffe Collaborates with Paralyzed Harry Potter Stunt Double for HBO Documentary
In a heartwarming partnership, Daniel Radcliffe, known for his portrayal of Harry Potter, has teamed up with his former stunt double, David Holmes, for an upcoming HBO documentary. The documentary, titled “David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived,” tells the inspiring story of Holmes, who sustained a spinal injury during the filming of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1.”
Holmes, a talented gymnast from Essex, was selected to be Radcliffe’s stunt double in the first Harry Potter film when he was just 11 years old. The two formed a close bond over the course of 10 years working together on the films until tragedy struck during the filming of “The Deathly Hallows: Part 1” in January 2009. Holmes broke his neck and became paralyzed from the chest down.
The documentary, set to debut in November and executive produced by Radcliffe, will feature candid personal footage, behind-the-scenes material from Holmes’s stunt work, scenes from his current life, and intimate interviews with Holmes, Radcliffe, and others. It aims to reflect universal themes of living with adversity, growing up, and forging identities in an uncertain world.
In an interview with the Mirror in 2014, Holmes revealed details of the accident that changed his life forever. He was pulled backward “at speed” by a high-strength wire during a stunt, replicating the effects of an explosion. However, the stunt went wrong, and Holmes was launched into a wall, resulting in a broken neck.
Despite the challenges he faces every day, Holmes maintains a positive attitude. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from medical staff, Radcliffe, and the Harry Potter author, JK Rowling. Holmes and Radcliffe have remained close since their time on the Harry Potter films, collaborating again in 2020 to launch Holmes’ Cunning Stunts podcast.
The HBO documentary not only showcases Holmes’ achievements but also sheds light on his daily struggles and his overall outlook on life after his life-altering injury. Holmes quoted Harry Potter, saying, “We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided,” emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience.
This collaboration between Radcliffe and Holmes serves as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that stunt performers put into their craft. Radcliffe highlighted the misconception that stuntmen are invincible and explained that even though they take precautions, they still experience pain and injury.
“David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived” promises to be a moving and inspirational documentary that celebrates the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is sure to resonate with audiences worldwide and remind them of the lasting impact of the Harry Potter films.