The Boy Who Lived: Surviving Harry Potter | David Holmes | TEDxSoho
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 ก.พ. 2025
- When working as Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double on the set of Harry Potter, David Holme's life was changed forever when a routine stunt went horribly wrong. This is the uplifting and fascinating story of how David rose from the ashes and reconstructed his life to become a broadcaster, disability ambassador, and, most recently, a BAFTA-nominated documentarian.
David Holmes is a broadcaster, writer and stunt enthusiast. First, a gymnast, David worked in stunts, starting at the age of 14 on Lost In Space. From there, David very quickly became an in-demand member of the stunt team for huge Hollywood productions, including Prince Of Persia, The Golden Compass and all eight Harry Potter films, where he had the essential role as Daniel Radcliffe's double. David qualified for the Stunt Register when he was 22 years old, and having just been a key part of one of the biggest franchises ever, the world was at his feet; then on January 28th 2009, at the age of 25, a stunt rehearsal went wrong and David was left paralysed.
David created the HBO documentary David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived in 2023, where he revealed to millions of viewers the nature of his accident and his disability. Touching, insightful and inspiring, the documentary reflected David himself, showing people that his legacy is not just his contributions to some of cinema's finest stunt sequences but also his courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx
People very rarely get a chance to say thanks and sorry to the same person at same time
Thanks and sorry
I have severe depression and am suicidal. This video made me stop my 'plan' and think about what I do have in my life.
Hang in there! Been there multiple times. Sending you lots of supporting thoughts and wishes ❤
You always have someone to talk to. Remember that.
You're going to get through this
never let the fire in your heart die.
hey man you doing good? i really hope you're fine
We loved you for the magic you created on the screen and we bless you for knocking and awakening the blessings we have. Thank you and thank you. A big hug for braving to this moment and giving us all such a wonderful perspectives. ❤
David, you’re amazing, don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. You and Danial Radcliffe have made Harry come to life. It was a team effort. You did an incredible job. We love you Man… It doesn’t matter what happened. You’re still cool.
You are amazing. Thank you. I learned everything you said.
1. Live in the present
2. Always look for the light
3. Be a Survival, Not a Victim
4. WORDS MATTER.
This man is no muggle, and don't we forget it. ❤
While you were racing through life at over 200 miles per hour, thank you for recognizing a gift that many don’t realize-the challenge of limited mobility, where nerves no longer travel at that same speed within the body. Life may deal us pain, but as Dumbledore wisely said, 'Suffering is optional.' After a small taste of immobility following major surgery, I can confirm: breathing deeply and finding laughter are truly some of the best medicines. Your reminder to never sit in the dark, but to always seek the light is paramount, even when the path feels like a journey through the Forbidden Forest! Thank you for choosing life and being a light for all of us. ❤
This is the type of talk/story that TH-cam needs to have a 'Love' button for💯🧡
I am not a Harry Potter fan. I do however want to thank you for this lesson from your perspective. Thank You for reminding me that gratitude is a daily choice. 💜
I loved this very much!
I wish I knew more about David when I loved (still do!) Harry Potter and not when I found out about your accident. But nonetheless, I learned so much about life in such a short period of video. Thank you for this David. The world needs more people like you
So glad this exists. I vividly recall the news breaking across the world about this injury during the filming of the final movie. But we weren't given any more details, any insight into the impact this had on David or anyone else in the team. Thank you for letting us in
Boy I wish I could give you a hug and a kiss ok on the cheek.
What an incredible person you are. I retired as a special education assistant working with special needs children. What an encouragement you are for them and everyone. Throughout all your challenges and pain you are a beacon of light. Thank you!
The fact this isnt on trending speaks to how broken this site is
Ted has gone woke, that’s why
This is hardly viral material. Cat videos get more view's than this in an hour
As someone with chronic pain and joint issues, I've already had to learn a lot of these lessons. Almost every time I've been in the ER, I've made all the nurses & techs laugh up a storm! What better way to cope with a trip to the hospital? In the book "A Stranger in a Strange Land," the main character finally realizes that humans laugh so we don't cry & give up. We laugh because it enables us to keep going. And I also know that all humans have pain, and that laughter is an important part of connecting with others. Thank you so much for sharing these lessons. And remember, when handed lemons, squeeze the day!
Life is a gift, sometimes we are gifted with pain, but we have a chance to make a choice to be happy. I understand that the way out is happiness, helping people and try to be the best we can!!!
Hugs from Asturias in northern Spain
Right there w/ya. Been dealing w/chronic pain for past 20 yrs. So many surgeries and procedures, I lost count and/or cannot recall them all. Living w/a “pain pump” for 14+ yrs, will be replaced in June. Depressed & broken hearted, as I’ve tried so hard to rid myself of pain pump last 3 yrs. Meds destroyed my bones, especially feet and hands. Have bone growths on knuckles, spine and neck. Had to have teeth removed, as they couldn’t be saved, due to pain meds rotting them from inside out. Have turned to a more natural/holistic remedies, which, after a month one has more, positive “relief”!
Will be praying you find much needed and deserved relief! GOD’s blessings to you and yours!
Important Questions with Timestamps:
[0:38] - "What can you gain from my experience?"
[4:50] - "What does it mean to live in the present?"
[5:47] - "What might living in the present mean for you?"
[6:05] - "Have you forgotten to appreciate what you had when you had it?"
[6:31] - "Are you present while making your plans?"
[7:06] - "Do you actively seek out the light, or do you settle for sitting in the dark?"
[8:03] - "How can you trust that you will find light as long as you keep looking?"
[8:15] - "Are you choosing to be a survivor or a victim in your life?"
[9:27] - "What things can you take control of, and what can you let go of?"
[10:01] - "Do you believe that suffering is a choice, like happiness?"
[10:27] - "Where do you expect to go if you start your day with negativity?"
[11:53] - "Do you want to live in a world full of joy, love, and laughter?"
[12:11] - "Are you embracing laughter as medicine in your life?"
[13:17] - "Are you sharing your disasters with friends to turn darkness into light?"
[14:27] - "How can you incorporate these lessons into all parts of your life?"
[14:40] - "Are you making decisions now that will create great stories to share?"
[14:43] - "When given the chance, will you always choose life?"
Your video really touched me. I lost my husband not that long ago and have really felt like my life was over and hearing you has given me hope...My life is what I make it and I need to be thankful for what I have. Thank you for your words. Sending love and light
I really needed to hear this today - thank you 🙏
… and there you were, asking us to take a breath.
I managed to inhale. And… when I was supposed to exhale, it ended in me tearing up. As someone whose mental health is really bad (and medication making it even worse) this hit home. HARD.
Dave, I’m very certain you never were a knob to begin with. I want you to keep breating. Independently. You’ll manage! You’re a HERO! 💕
Thanks. You're awesome. I hate that this happened to you, but I'm blessed to have "met" you through your video. Wishing you more and more laughter every day and every moment 🙂
Hey beautiful 👋, you got charming looks😊, keep that smile. Trying to imagine what song you composing there.😇
David I understand where your coming from I suffer from Major Depression Disorder , but there are always time to be positive , it's too easy to be negative , in fact I often catch myself thinking negative and have to change my thinking . Thanks for the reminders be thankful everyday.
Hard earned Wisdom. “Laughter is always the best medicine”. *ALWAYS*
This takes amazing courage, wisdom and inner strength to do. To talk about such a difficult experience snd share wisdom with others it moves me to do better and to be more grateful. You can never have too much gratitude.
One of my-coaches/co-workers was fortunate to do stunts in Harry Potter thanks to David. I found this so inspiring as I have seen disabilities play a role in my family's lives and following this advise lets me see how fortunate I am. Just this past year my brother can no longer live in my household though he is a minor because of his autism needs and I have a friend who is now paralyzed from the waist down from a car crash which reminded me of David's documentary, struggle, and surviving story. I especially liked the part when he said to wiggle your toes because it showed me how I should not try and harp on all the little things I take for granted. I would have never heard this story if it were not for meeting this coach and I am so glad she and David have been so inspiring.
Thank you so much for being an encouragement to us all. The best medicine you have given your family is truly your smile. You don't know the joy that your smile gives to the people who care for you. I have been there and may the God Lord heal you 🙏🙏
Such a wonderful person & such strength! Thank you for sharing & for making me smile ❤.
To David, First off, thank you for inspiring us with your story. Your point about living in the present and being the survivor instead of being the victim reminded me of what we often forget or take for granted in our day-to-day life these days. My dad got paralysed due to a car accident and one of the reasons why I chose to pursue my research in robotics and AI, so, that I could use my expertise to help people with spinal-cord injury with the help of machines. Thank you once again for inspiring us! Keep being the inspiration you are and keep being amazing!🙏🙏🙏
Thank you so much for the advices! I'll make sure to keep them in mind and in action! ❣️
Aloha from Maui. This was so very inspiring, I can't even begin to say thank you for your thoughtful words and encouragement with splashes of humor. So good.
David, you’re an inspiration and a legend
Thank you for sharing your story, your wit, and your light!
You will and HAVE affected more people positively than you WILL EVER KNOW! Thanks so VERY MUCH for sharing!!!
Loved watching the documentary David! Lots of love to you! 🤗🤗😊🤗😊
What a beautiful message. Thank you for your optimistic message. Bless you!
Dear Mr Holmes thank you for sharing your thoughts with us and the message they carry along, well said...and let's live the moment in a positive way for the better every day. Be well.
You are an amazing person. I have had a little condition for most of my life and we seem to have similar additudes. I wake up to a good day every day! Every morning, after meditation and before is begin my work, I send around Daily Pick Me Ups to friends and former coworkers . . along with a little love, light and healing energy. May you continue to inspire our world as we need more people like you! Blessings on your day
Dave, you are as always an inspiration and very entertaining, sending loads of love ❤ I've shared this with my son Charlie who has a lot going on and I'm sure it will help him xxx
This is so profound. Thank you for sharing. It's greatly appreciated ❤
This inspirational. I shall share this far and wide. Blessings, of whatever sort you wish be upon you.
David you are such a joy - thank you for being you x
So inspiring. I really needed to hear this today. Thank you.
You have an amazing attitude and I applaud you. 2 1/2 years ago, after surgery to remove numerous blood clots from both of my lungs, I had 2 strokes while on an IV of heparin, which is the strongest blood thinner available. I am a thankful woman because I can walk and talk, even though I have weakness on my whole left side and use a cane to walk. It could be worse. I could be unable to walk or talk. I never take it for granted. Thank you for the reminders
Powerful words to live by. Thank you for sharing your perspective, David. These were the words I most needed to hear, for the good of my heart and my soul.
You have shown us how much we take for granted. Thank you.
We lovee youuu soo muchh David , thankyou for creating all those magic on screen
I have been hearing about you for the last 2 months and since then I wanted to listen you , finally you spoke about your story ❤❤❤
Lovee youuu soo muchhhh
I've cried whole speech, I never thought a person who has absolutely different live situation than mine could touch my soul that deep. Thank you for being such an inspiration, your unbreakable spirit gives me energy to live every moment of my life realizing the beauty of being present and living as happy as possible
Great video luv. Good luck on your recovery and thanks for all the work you have done💙💙
Wow!! You are such an inspiration and blessing! We are all connected on every level! I see your grace, compassion, strength, courage, humor and so much love and joy!! God Bless You!!🙏🥰✨
David is a lovely human being. I can't wait to read your book!
Beautiful. Heartwarming and Kind, through all your pain. Thank you, good sir.
You have strength 💪 🙏 ❤️ of soul. You are living in the positivity you find in each day. This is a wonderful message to share that can help so many. You are a light to others.
Love this from south Africa ...thanks for the lesson ❤
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and your beautiful view of the world, David. I truly did think that I wouldn't have anything in common with you at all, as you said, but you proved me wrong and I thank you. Your video struck something in me that brought me to tears, which was wild because I have not cried in what feels like years. It felt relieving. And I feel I have just awakened to my life after just going about, not appreciating the time I have been given on this earth and appreciating the huge possibilities that lay at my feet. Now, I want to take action and find my light, be present in my life that I will live to the fullest.
Thank you, from a Swedish youth.
I was stunned by your bravery and your love for life. I have seen all Harry Potter films and my two nieces read all the books and watched the films too!
God bless you and enjoy life as much as you can!
Thank you, David! All the best to you🫶
Thank you so much for your story and your advice. You reminded me to be thankful every day for all I have - the people I love, the things that I can do and the contribution I can make.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. You are such an extraordinary person and your legacy will provide value to us all.
Muchas Gracias! David hoy cada día aprovecharé a respirar mas profundamente conscientemente to really live my present focusing on my momen. Thanks!
Thank you for the talk,it brings out the bravery in me.
Amazing life.
We all have our struggles
he is amazing, thank you so much for this video
Thank you for your wisdom David. You have a warrior's spirit and a philosopher's soul. I am deeply sorry for what you've lost and so inspired by the perspective you have gained. Your humour is brilliant! Lots of love to you Bro ❤💚💛💙
Thank you David❤
"Be a Survivor, not a Victim" is a bar.
Thank you David ❤ I wish you lightness and happiness always.
Thank you for this amazing positive message!
Thank you so much for this testimony ❤
Thank you for being so awesome! I agree completely with you. 🥰
Well said. This is uplifting to not feel alone
This was beautiful. Thank you for the reminder to live.
That''s a great message for all of us! 😀🙏
Thank you David! God bless you - and I realy mean it!
Thank you very much for this
Thanks for share your Storie. ♡
Thank you ❤
Thank you for your wisdom, your words resonate deep.
Thank you so much for the great advices.
Thank you❤
Thank you 🙏❤️
Thank you very much! I have FND so I understand a portion of that perspective you've gained (when you asked us to wiggle our toes... mine took a second to respond)
Thank you! That was really helpful.
Such an inspiring story and a beautiful person
To David, Thank you for inspiring us with your instructive story. I fully give respect to your perspective as we usually forget what we had in the present and think about past. 14:27 I'll always keeping in touch on your advice. May God bless you more David'.
Thank you
Hope you have a wonderful holiday season. You are magic.
This one hit home so much
Thank you!
Your much stronger than me sir, I have the utmost respect for you. My mom is really bad sick and i will lose her. I don't know what to do
Thank you 👍🏽
Yep, you are incredible!
Thanks for sharing ❤
I heard you loud and clear. ❤
Thanks for this video
Thank you and Greetings 👋
May Allah bless you in this life and the next. This amount of patience and perseverance truly are a feat for mankind. Thank you for the wisdom, friend.
thank you 🙏
Thank you for such a beautiful message. It truly touched my heart, and I will carry its meaning with me throughout my life. 🥹🙏💖
He is amazing
Miss cutie 🥺
I wish you all the best for your life. May you find the light of the life. Thank you Harry Potter. ❤😊
That’s the boy who lived -real harry. Thanks man for advise
Dude looks absolutely blitzed
Inspiring 🤗