‘Breaking My Neck on Harry Potter Hasn’t Changed Me as a Person,’ Says Stuntman David Holmes

David Holmes, the longtime stunt double for Daniel Radcliffe, says a life-altering accident on the Harry Potter film set did not change who he is — only how he lives. More than 15 years after breaking his neck during a stunt, Holmes says acceptance, gratitude, and friendship have helped him find peace. Holmes was just 17 when he began working on the Harry Potter films, performing high-risk stunts considered too dangerous for the young lead actor. In January 2009, while filming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1, a harness malfunction jerked him backward into a wall, leaving him paralysed at the age of 24.

‘I Knew I Had Broken My Neck’

Holmes recalls being fully conscious after the accident and immediately understanding the severity of his injuries. Despite losing mobility, he says he never blamed the production or held onto anger.

“I chose a dangerous profession,” he explained, adding that while the incident was not his fault, focusing on blame would not help his recovery. He ultimately decided not to sue the studio, choosing instead to prioritize rehabilitation and mental health.

The Power of Harry Potter — On and Off Screen

Holmes says he will never regret his work on Harry Potter. He believes the films provide comfort and escapism for audiences worldwide, including children watching in conflict zones. The franchise also holds personal meaning. Holmes shared that his partner, Rosie — who is also a quadriplegic — found solace in the films during difficult periods of her life. “It took me breaking my neck to meet the woman of my dreams,” he said.

A Lifelong Bond With Daniel Radcliffe

Holmes and Radcliffe have remained close friends. Radcliffe encouraged him to tell his story publicly, leading to the 2023 documentary David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived. Holmes says the film helped him accept his identity as a disabled man with a platform to raise awareness. He regularly speaks out about accessibility challenges, noting how systems often penalize disabled people for relationships, independence, and mobility.

Returning to the Wizarding World

In a full-circle moment, Holmes is returning to the Harry Potter universe as a voice actor. He plays Stan Shunpike in a new audiobook of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, set for release this month. Holmes says the role is especially meaningful because he performed stunts on the Knight Bus scene during filming. He hopes the opportunity leads to more voice-acting roles and greater disability representation in fantasy storytelling.

Looking Ahead With Gratitude

Today, Holmes continues to advocate for stunt performers and the disabled community. He supports fundraising events for spinal injury treatment, is writing a children’s book, and hopes to stage a one-man show about his career.

“The thing I’m most proud of is that I broke my neck and stayed the same person,” he said. His message to others is simple: appreciate your health, practice gratitude, and “wiggle your toes.”