Fat Friar Actor Simon Fisher-Becker Has Passed Away at 63
We are saddened to report that Simon Fisher-Becker, the actor who portrayed the Fat Friar in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, has passed away at the age of 63.
His agent, Kim Barry of Jaffrey Management, confirmed via Metro that the actor died on March 9.
Today I lost not only a client in Simon Fisher-Becker, but a close personal friend of 15 years standing. I shall never forget the phone call I made to him when he was offered the part of Dorium [Maldovar] in BBC’s ‘[Doctor] Who.’ Simon was also a writer, a raconteur and a great public speaker. He helped me out enormously and was kind, gracious and interested in everyone.
My condolences go to his husband Tony, his brother, nieces and nephews and his legion of fans.
While Fisher-Becker’s role in the Harry Potter films was brief, his portrayal of Hufflepuff’s ghost left an impression on fans. In the Potter books, the Fat Friar is known for his kindness and generosity, always willing to offer guidance to Hogwarts’s students. Though the film adaptations reduced the role of ghosts, Fisher-Becker’s brief performance in Sorcerer’s Stone captured the Friar’s warm, jovial nature.
Fisher-Becker as Hufflepuff House ghost the Fat Friar, making his entrance to the start of term feast in the Great Hall in “Sorcerer’s Stone.”
Fisher-Becker also made a brief appearance in Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses in 2021.
Beyond Harry Potter, he was known for playing Dorium Maldovar in Doctor Who, a fan favorite during Matt Smith’s time as the Doctor. His work in television also included roles in One Foot in the Grave, The Bill, Doctors, and the Oscar-winning film Les Misérables.
His passing was also announced on his Facebook page by his husband, Tony.
Hello everyone. This is Tony, Simon’s husband. I have some very sad news. At 2:50 this afternoon Simon passed away. I’ll be keeping this account open for a while. I’m not sure at this point if I’ll be posting again. Thank you.
Fisher-Becker was a passionate storyteller, sharing his experiences through vlogs, memoirs, and live performances, inspiring many with his journey in the entertainment industry. Our deepest sympathies are with Fisher-Becker’s family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time.
