Twin Peaks star dies suddenly at 44
Actor Owain Rhys Davies, best known for playing FBI Agent Wilson in Twin Peaks: The Return, has died at the age of 44.
The Welsh performer passed away suddenly last week, according to his family. While details surrounding his death remain limited, loved ones say they believe he died naturally and peacefully.
Davies built a diverse acting career spanning television, film, and musical theater. In addition to his memorable role in David Lynch’s acclaimed revival of Twin Peaks, he appeared in films including Alice Through the Looking Glass, The Relationtrip, and Serial Killer’s Guide to Life.
News of his death was shared by his brother, Rhodri Davies, in an emotional Instagram post.
Family Shares Heartbreaking Statement
”It is with profound sadness that my father and I share the news that my brother, Owain, has passed away,” Rhodri wrote.
”This news will come as a great shock to many. The reach of Owain’s love, friendship, and generosity was vast.”
He acknowledged that questions still remain surrounding the circumstances of his brother’s death.
”While there are still questions that remain unanswered regarding the circumstances of his death, our understanding at this stage is that Owain passed suddenly, naturally, and peacefully.”
Rhodri also expressed gratitude for the support the family has received in recent days.
”The outpouring of messages we have received over the past few days has been deeply moving and a testament to the impact he had on so many lives.”
He reflected on the close relationships Owain formed throughout his life and career.
”Owain was fortunate enough to have more than one family.”
”Alongside his biological one, he built extraordinary, family-like bonds with many of his closest friends, colleagues, and loved ones.”
”I am incredibly proud that, while he was my brother, he was also a brother to so many others.”
”We know that this loss will be felt by a great many people, and we take comfort in knowing how loved he was.”
Fellow actors mourn his loss
Following the announcement, friends and colleagues from across the entertainment industry shared tributes honoring Davies’ life and career.
Downton Abbey actress Joanne Froggatt expressed her grief in a heartfelt message.
”No words seem to convey my emotions. I am so sorry for your loss and the grief you must be feeling.”
”I am devastated to lose our beautiful friend, he was more than a friend, he was joy and life and talent and kindness and fun and intelligence.”
”He was everything and my brain can’t compute that we don’t get to hug him again.”
”What I would give for one more hug. You’re forever in our hearts cariad.”
Former Coronation Street star Hayley Tamaddon also shared memories of their friendship.
”Heartbreaking to hear that my beautiful friend has passed away.”
”Owain was loved by so many. He lit up Every room he went into.”
”I have some wonderful memories of us together, we go back so many years.. but our time together in LA will always make me smile.”
”Sleep well my love. My heart goes out to his friends, and family Rhodri and Conway.”
Actress Natalie Anderson also offered support to the family, writing:
”Sending you and your Dad so much love and strength. Our beautiful, kind Owain.”
Actor Fra Fee remembered Davies as a source of warmth and positivity.
”I join in on the mass love bomb for your bro – the unbelievably beautiful legendary Owain.”
”He was and always will be a bloody LIGHT in our lives. He was so kind to me. I’m so grateful. Sending you and your family all the love man x”
Remembering His Career
Born in Cardiff, Wales, Davies became known to many American audiences through his appearance in Twin Peaks: The Return, David Lynch’s critically acclaimed continuation of the cult television series.
Following the show’s release in 2017, Davies shared a behind-the-scenes photo with Lynch and reflected on the experience.
”What a wondrously beautiful thrill ride it was working with this legend.”
“Being welcomed in by the Twin Peaks family of cast and crew was truly an honour and can’t thank them enough for allowing me to be apart of this cinematic masterpiece. If you ever need to call on me you know what to do….WILSON!!!!”
Outside of television and film, Davies also enjoyed a successful career on stage, appearing in West End productions of Mamma Mia! and The Wizard of Oz.
His television credits included appearances in The Indian Doctor, My Dead Ex, and Netflix’s sci-fi drama The OA.