Paul Grant, the British actor and stuntman who brought memorable characters to life in iconic fantasy films such as Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, sadly passed away on March 20, 2023. While he is no longer with us, his contributions to cinema, particularly within the beloved fantasy genre, continue to resonate with audiences in 2025. 

A Career Forged in Fantasy Worlds

Born on February 3, 1967, Paul Grant began his career in the film industry at a young age. Due to his height of 4ft 4in (1.32m), a result of dwarfism, he often found himself cast in roles that required actors of smaller stature, particularly in fantasy and adventure films that frequently featured mythical creatures and fantastical beings.

Early Breakthrough: The Ewok in Return of the Jedi

One of Grant’s earliest and most recognizable roles was as an Ewok in George Lucas’s Return of the Jedi (1983). These small, furry inhabitants of the forest moon of Endor played a crucial role in aiding the Rebel Alliance in their fight against the Galactic Empire. Grant’s involvement in such a monumental film cemented his place in cinematic history and introduced him to a global audience. Even in 2025, Star Wars remains a cultural phenomenon, and the Ewoks hold a nostalgic charm for many fans who remember the original trilogy. Discussions and retrospectives on the making of Return of the Jedi, which might surface on platforms like YouTube and be searched on Google, often highlight the actors who brought these characters to life, including Paul Grant.

Venturing into the Goblin Corps of Labyrinth

In 1986, Grant appeared in another cult classic fantasy film, Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, starring David Bowie. In this visually imaginative movie, Grant was part of the Goblin Corps, the army of creatures serving the Goblin King. He also served as a stunt double for the character Hoggle. Labyrinth has maintained a strong following over the years, and in 2025, it continues to be discovered by new generations through streaming platforms and online discussions. Content on YouTube might explore the making of the film, the intricate creature design, and the actors who portrayed these fantastical beings, potentially including archival footage or interviews with Paul Grant.

Stunt Work in Legend and Willow

Beyond acting, Paul Grant also contributed to the film industry as a stuntman. He performed stunts in Ridley Scott’s fantasy film Legend (1985), starring Tom Cruise, and in Ron Howard’s Willow (1988), another Lucasfilm production that featured Warwick Davis in the lead role. His skills as a stunt performer showcased his versatility and commitment to the world of filmmaking. In 2025, discussions about these films might touch upon the challenging stunt work involved and the contributions of performers like Grant.

A Goblin in the World of Harry Potter

Years later, Grant returned to the fantasy genre in a small but notable role in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001). He played an uncredited role as a goblin in Gringotts Wizarding Bank, further solidifying his association with major fantasy franchises. The Harry Potter series continues to be immensely popular in 2025, with a vast online community that explores all aspects of the films, including the various creatures and characters that inhabit the wizarding world. While his role was uncredited, any comprehensive look at the goblins of Gringotts might mention the various actors who portrayed them.

Life Beyond the Screen and Passing

In the years leading up to his death, Paul Grant faced personal struggles, including battles with drug and alcohol addiction, which he openly discussed. News reports from the time of his passing highlighted these challenges. On March 16, 2023, Grant collapsed outside St Pancras railway station in London and was rushed to the hospital. Tragically, he was declared brain dead, and his life support was switched off on March 20, 2023.

He is survived by his girlfriend, Maria Dwyer, his two daughters, Sophie Jayne Grant and Talia Grant, and a son, as well as stepchildren and grandchildren. Following his death, his daughter Sophie described him as a “legend in so many ways” who “always brought a smile and laughter to everyone’s face.”

Paul Grant’s Enduring Presence in 2025

Even in 2025, two years after his passing, Paul Grant’s work continues to reach audiences through streaming services, home media releases, and the enduring popularity of the Star Wars and Harry Potter franchises.

Nostalgia and Rediscovery: For those who grew up watching the original Star Wars trilogy and the early Harry Potter films, Grant remains a part of those cherished memories. As these films are passed down to new generations, his performances, even in smaller roles, contribute to the overall magic and wonder of these cinematic universes. Online forums, social media, and platforms like YouTube often feature discussions where fans reminisce about the actors and characters that made these films so special.

Tributes and Retrospectives: Following his death in 2023, there were likely tributes and retrospectives on his career within the entertainment news sphere and on fan-created content. In 2025, these memories might resurface in anniversary discussions related to the films he starred in or in broader explorations of actors who specialized in character roles within fantasy cinema. YouTube channels dedicated to film history or the making of fantasy films might include segments on Grant’s contributions.

The Human Element: Paul Grant’s openness about his personal struggles also adds a layer of human connection to his legacy. In an era where discussions about mental health and addiction are increasingly prevalent, his story serves as a reminder of the challenges that individuals in the public eye can face. Any future discussions about actors who have overcome adversity or who have spoken candidly about their struggles might reference his experiences.

Family and Legacy: While information about his family life is private, the fact that he is survived by children and grandchildren suggests that his legacy extends beyond his on-screen work. They carry forward his memory and the impact he had on those around him.

Final Thoughts

While Paul Grant is no longer with us in 2025, his contributions to the world of fantasy cinema remain a part of his enduring legacy. From the forests of Endor to the labyrinth of the Goblin King and the depths of Gringotts, he helped bring fantastical worlds to life for millions of viewers. His work in iconic films ensures that he will be remembered by fans of these beloved franchises for years to come. As these films continue to be watched and discussed, Paul Grant’s place in cinematic history is secure, a testament to the impact one can have, regardless of the size of the role. His memory lives on through his performances and the joy he brought to audiences worldwide.

FAQs

Who was Paul Grant? 

Paul Grant (February 3, 1967 – March 20, 2023) was a British actor and stuntman known for his roles in several iconic fantasy films, including Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, Labyrinth, and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Due to his height, he often played characters of smaller stature, particularly fantastical creatures.

What were Paul Grant’s most famous roles? 

He is most famously known for playing an Ewok in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi and as part of the Goblin Corps (and a stunt double for Hoggle) in Jim Henson’s Labyrinth. He also had an uncredited role as a goblin in Gringotts Wizarding Bank in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

What was the cause of Paul Grant’s death? 

Paul Grant was declared brain dead after collapsing outside St Pancras railway station in London on March 16, 2023. His life support was subsequently switched off. Specific details regarding the underlying cause of his collapse were not widely publicized.

To read more, Click Here