Harry Potter stuntman David Holmes opens up on bond with Daniel Radcliffe
"We grew up together, and then he grew to be one of my best friends and has been ever since."
New Sky documentary David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived tells the story of Holmes, Daniel Radcliffe's Harry Potter stunt double who was left paralysed while filming the hit movie franchise.
Ahead of the documentary's release, Holmes spoke with this week's Radio Times magazine, and discussed his close bond with Radcliffe - who he calls his "brother".
Holmes said that when they were working on the films, he and Radcliffe would "mess around together" and that they would "jump off Portakabins, we would jump on trampolines and do all things that would make the insurance company have a fit".
He explained that their bond hasn't changed over the years, adding: "Whether that was us going on holidays together in our teenage years or when I go out and spend time with him in New York, it’s that sense of, 'I’m just your mate.'
"We grew up together, and then he grew to be one of my best friends and has been ever since. I’m nothing but proud of him."
Holmes also explained how he feels about the Harry Potter films now, saying: "I wouldn’t be human if I didn’t have regrets. But around my stunt career and around my contribution to the Potters, no.
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"I had the best job in the world and I’m part of something really beautiful, and you can’t ask for more than that as a legacy. If anyone can take something from my film, it’s understanding that we’re all on borrowed time and that we make the most of it."
The one-off documentary will feature personal footage shot over the last decade, behind-the-scenes material from Holmes's stunt work, scenes of his current life and intimate interviews with Holmes, Radcliffe, friends, family and former crew.
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It will first air on HBO in the US on Wednesday 15th November, before arriving on Sky Documentary and NOW from Saturday 18th November.
David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived premieres on HBO on Wednesday 15th November at 9pm EST, before being made available to stream on Max in the US. UK viewers can stream it on Sky Documentaries and NOW from 18th November.
If you’re looking for more to watch, check out our TV Guide or visit our hub for more Documentaries news.
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Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.