British actor Simon Fisher-Becker, recognized for his performances in “Harry Potter” and “Doctor Who,” has passed away at 63. His death on March 9, 2025 was confirmed by his manager, Kim Barry of Jaffrey Management, as well as his husband, Tony Dugdale.
“Today I lost not only a client in Simon Fisher-Becker, but a close personal friend of 15 years standing,” Barry told The Post in a statement.
Fisher-Becker gained recognition for his role as the Fat Friar ghost in the 2001 movie “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” His character served as the ghost of Hufflepuff House in the film, known as “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” in the UK.
Barry praised the actor’s abilities beyond acting, noting his talents as a writer and skilled public speaker.
Tony Dugdale confirmed the death via a post on Fisher-Becker’s Facebook page.
Born on November 25, 1961, in London, England, Fisher-Becker developed a diverse career across theater, television, and film. While he became known globally for his role as the Fat Friar in the first Harry Potter film, he was equally recognized for playing Dorium Maldovar in the BBC series “Doctor Who,” appearing in Seasons 5 and 6.
Fisher-Becker continued his role as Dorium Maldovar beyond the television series, reprising it in audio dramas in 2018 and 2021, including “Doctor Who: The Eleventh Doctor Chronicles” and “Jenny—The Doctor’s Daughter,” maintaining his connection with the franchise.
His talents extended to various British television productions. He portrayed Tony Fazackerley in the 2014 BBC comedy series “Puppy Love.” His numerous television credits feature appearances in notable British shows such as “One Foot in the Grave,” “The Bill,” “Love Soup,” “Afterlife,” “Doctors,” and “Getting On.”
In film, Fisher-Becker was part of the ensemble in the 2012 Oscar-winning “Les Misérables.” His other film credits include “Arrivederci Millwall,” “Beg!,” “Sweet Thing,” and the recent 2023 thriller “Disaster Dates 2.”
According to his IMDb profile, Fisher-Becker described himself as a character actor with a strength in comedy, equally comfortable in drama. His extensive experience spanned the entertainment industry, from Shakespeare to pantomime, encompassing film, television, radio, and web series.
Beyond acting, Fisher-Becker developed and performed his one-man shows and was active as a motivational speaker. His IMDb profile noted he “could conduct a full Symphony and Choir,” indicating his wide-ranging abilities.
At the time of his death, Fisher-Becker had several upcoming projects, such as roles in the comedy-drama “Henry House,” the TV movie “Humber City: The Rising Tide,” and the films “Welcome to Paradise” and “The Director,” showing his continued activity in his career.
News of Fisher-Becker’s passing led to tributes from colleagues and fans. Fellow actor Dominic G. Martin remembered him as a “legend” in the “Doctor Who” fan community, highlighting his positive impact on others.
Big Finish Productions, the company behind the “Doctor Who” audio dramas that Fisher-Becker participated in, also extended condolences, acknowledging his contributions to the “Doctor Who” universe beyond television.
Though Fisher-Becker’s passing has left a gap in the British entertainment industry and among fans of the franchises he was part of, his legacy endures through his memorable performances across various media. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
