'Harry Potter' star reveals major role Val Kilmer played in his career

Harry Potter star Warwick Davis has revealed that his late friend, Val Kilmer, played a major role in his career.

The 55-year-old actor gained wide recognition for his role as the titular character Willow in the 1988 high fantasy adventure film alongside Kilmer.

While chatting with Entertainment Weekly, he candidly discussed his experience of filming Willow with his co-star.

"He's really the reason I got through the making of the film Willow," the BAFTA winner told the outlet.

"Because if ever I was tired, exhausted, fed up, cold, he'd say, 'Come on, keep going!' And he'd be the kind of leader of the army, keeping us going. He was a beautiful man," Davis lauded.

Some media publications have reportedly characterized Kilmer as difficult to work with, he said, continuing, "I always like to tell the world how great he was, because I often think the media gave the wrong impression of who he was as a person."

Before concluding, Warwick Davis shared, "He was a very warm, generous, kind-hearted person."

The 1988 fantasy movie grossed $137 million worldwide against a $35 million budget.

For those unversed, Kilmer died of pneumonia in Los Angeles on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65.