Warwick Davis Age And Return Of The Jedi: A Comprehensive Look

Jeremy Wilkinson 21 Jun 2025

Warwick Davis gained widespread recognition for his role as Wicket the Ewok in "Return of the Jedi," a film that became a cornerstone of the Star Wars saga. His portrayal of the small but mighty Ewok left an indelible mark on fans worldwide. However, beyond the character of Wicket lies a fascinating story about the man behind the mask. This article dives deep into Warwick Davis' age during the filming of "Return of the Jedi" and explores his enduring legacy in the world of cinema.

Born into a family of modest height, Warwick Davis was uniquely suited to play the Ewok. His stature became a defining feature of his career, leading him to roles in some of the most iconic films in cinematic history. From "Return of the Jedi" to his work with director Terry Gilliam, Davis' career is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity.

In this article, we will explore Warwick Davis' life, his age during the filming of "Return of the Jedi," and how his role in the film contributed to its success. We'll also delve into his post-Ewok career, his biographical details, and the lasting impact he has had on the entertainment industry.

Biography of Warwick Davis
Warwick Davis Age During Return of the Jedi
Early Career and Discovering Talent
Role in Return of the Jedi
Impact on Star Wars Franchise
Career After Return of the Jedi
Family Life and Personal Details
Interesting Facts About Warwick Davis
Awards and Achievements
Conclusion and Legacy

Biography of Warwick Davis

Warwick Davis was born on February 3, 1970, in Redditch, Worcestershire, England. Standing at just 3 feet 8 inches (111 cm), Davis was born with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, a form of dwarfism. Despite this, he has carved out an impressive career in the film and entertainment industry.

Biodata of Warwick Davis

Full Name	Warwick Ashley Davis
Birthdate	February 3, 1970
Place of Birth	Redditch, Worcestershire, England
Height	3 feet 8 inches (111 cm)
Occupation	Actor, Writer, Director

His career began at a young age when he was discovered by casting agents searching for actors of short stature for the film "Willow." This role marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career in the entertainment industry.

Warwick Davis Age During Return of the Jedi

When "Return of the Jedi" was released in 1983, Warwick Davis was just 13 years old. His youth and small stature made him an ideal candidate for the role of Wicket the Ewok. Despite his young age, Davis brought a maturity and professionalism to the role that captivated audiences worldwide.

His performance as Wicket was a significant factor in the film's success. The character's charm and bravery resonated with viewers, and Davis' portrayal earned him a place in cinematic history.

Early Career and Discovering Talent

Before "Return of the Jedi," Warwick Davis had already begun to make waves in the entertainment industry. At the age of 12, he was cast in the film "Willow," directed by Ron Howard and produced by George Lucas. This early exposure to the world of filmmaking helped shape his career and provided him with valuable experience.

In addition to acting, Davis has also pursued other creative endeavors, including writing and directing. His versatility and passion for storytelling have allowed him to explore various aspects of the entertainment industry.

Role in Return of the Jedi

Warwick Davis' role as Wicket the Ewok in "Return of the Jedi" was pivotal to the film's success. Wicket, a young Ewok who befriends Princess Leia, played a crucial role in the battle against the Empire. His bravery and resourcefulness were key to the Rebels' victory.

Behind the scenes, Davis worked tirelessly to bring Wicket to life. The costume and puppetry required for the role were complex and demanding, but Davis' dedication and talent shone through. His performance helped make Wicket one of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars universe.

Challenges in Filming

Wearing a full-body Ewok costume for extended periods
Performing intricate movements while wearing the costume
Collaborating with other actors and puppeteers

Impact on Star Wars Franchise

Warwick Davis' contribution to the Star Wars franchise extends far beyond "Return of the Jedi." Over the years, he has reprised his role as Wicket in various Star Wars projects, including the animated series "Star Wars: Forces of Destiny" and the live-action series "The Mandalorian."

His continued involvement in the franchise highlights his importance to the Star Wars universe. Fans appreciate his dedication and the authenticity he brings to his roles, making him a beloved figure in the Star Wars community.

Career After Return of the Jedi

Following his success in "Return of the Jedi," Warwick Davis went on to have a prolific career in the entertainment industry. He worked with legendary director Terry Gilliam on films such as "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen" and "The Fisher King," showcasing his versatility as an actor.

In addition to his acting career, Davis has also ventured into writing and directing. He wrote and directed the 2010 film "Life's Too Short," which received critical acclaim. His work in both acting and directing demonstrates his passion for storytelling and his commitment to his craft.

Notable Roles After Return of the Jedi

Willow Ufgood in "Willow"
Ludo in "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian"
Terry in "Life's Too Short" (TV series)

Family Life and Personal Details

Warwick Davis is married to Samantha Webb, and the couple has two children. Despite his busy career, Davis prioritizes spending time with his family and maintaining a balanced life. His personal life reflects his values and commitment to those he loves.

Throughout his career, Davis has been open about his condition and has used his platform to advocate for individuals with dwarfism. He is a vocal supporter of inclusivity and diversity in the entertainment industry, encouraging others to embrace their uniqueness.

Interesting Facts About Warwick Davis

Warwick Davis is a fascinating individual with a rich and varied life. Here are some interesting facts about him:

He was discovered by casting agents while visiting a theme park with his family.
Davis holds a Guinness World Record for the tallest dwarf in the world.
He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including "Harry Potter" and "Game of Thrones."
Warwick Davis is a talented drummer and has played with famous musicians such as Eric Clapton and Elton John.

Awards and Achievements

Warwick Davis' contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. Some of his notable achievements include:

BAFTA Children's Award nomination for "Life's Too Short"
Guinness World Record for tallest dwarf
Honorary Doctorate from the University of Gloucestershire

His work both in front of and behind the camera has earned him a reputation as a talented and dedicated artist. Fans and colleagues alike respect his professionalism and creativity.

Conclusion and Legacy

Warwick Davis' career is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. From his early days as Wicket the Ewok in "Return of the Jedi" to his current work as an actor, writer, and director, Davis has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His age during the filming of "Return of the Jedi" may have been just 13, but his talent and dedication have ensured a lasting legacy.

As fans continue to enjoy his work in the Star Wars franchise and beyond, Warwick Davis remains a beloved figure in the world of cinema. His advocacy for inclusivity and diversity serves as an inspiration to many, and his contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered for generations to come.

We invite you to leave a comment below and share your thoughts on Warwick Davis and his role in "Return of the Jedi." For more articles like this, explore our website and discover the stories behind your favorite films and actors.

References:

IMDb - Warwick Davis
Star Wars official website
Guinness World Records

Warwick Davis Wookieepedia Fandom

How Warwick Davis Won Return of the Jedi Role Aged 12

Which characters does Warwick Davis play in the Star Wars movies

Hollywood Hustle