Daniel Radcliffe is set to act as the executive producer on a documentary about his Harry Potter stunt double David Holmes, who was paralysed during the filming of the franchise’s seventh film
Daniel Radcliffe, 34, will executive produce a documentary about his stunt double in the iconic Harry Potter films who was paralysed during filming.
The actor, who played the famous boy wizard in all eight of the franchise’s films, formed a close bond with his stunt double David Holmes during their time shooting the magical movies. David was paralysed while working on the penultimate film in the series, Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 1.
The upcoming documentary David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived, is billed as a “coming-of-age story” about the Harry Potter stuntman, who was a teenage gymnast from Essex when he was selected to play Daniel’s double in the first film, when the young actor was just 11.
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The film, directed by Dan Hartley, will feature candid personal footage shot over the last decade, behind-the-scenes material from David’s stunt work, and scenes of his current life. It will also feature interviews with David and Daniel, as well as friends, family, and former crew.
Announcing the documentary on social media, David told his Instagram followers: “Finally, the day has come. I can now share with you all the secret project and four years’ hard work that has gone into creating this film: THE BOY WHO LIVED. Being a stuntman was my calling in life, and doubling Harry was the best job in the world.
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He continued to pen: “In January 2009, I had a stunt rehearsal accident that changed my life forever. This film tells the story of not just my achievements in front of camera, but also the challenges I face every day, and my overall attitude to life after suffering a broken neck.
“In the turbulent world we find ourselves living in right now, I would like to quote Harry: ‘We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided. I am only able to live because of the united love and support that I am fortunate enough to have had. And it is thanks to this love and support that I am able to share my journey with you all.”
David went on to pay tribute to NHS staff, his friends and family and care team, as well as the international stunt community, adding: “I could not get through one day without their continued love and support.” The former stunt double also acknowledge J.K Rowling, author of the Harry Potter books, has been supportive of the project and encouraged him to share his story.
He concluded by thanking Daniel for “for his willingness to help tell my story, and for his years of support, friendship and love” and added: “We are both immensely proud of our time on the Harry Potter films, and the joy and comfort it brings to audiences around the world on a daily basis. The spirit of Harry lives in us, and anybody else lucky enough to have worked on those films, and always will.”
David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived will be available on demand on Sky Documentaries and streaming service Now from November 18.