Oscar-Winning ‘Harry Potter’ Crew Member Dies at 83
Stuart Craig, the British production designer who helped create the worlds of Gandhi, The English Patient, and the Harry Potter films, has died. He was 83.
His death was confirmed by the British Film Designers Guild, which shared a message from designer Neil Lamont on Facebook. Lamont said Craig died on September 7 after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease.
“It is with great sadness that I report that my friend and mentor, Production Designer Stuart Craig, passed away last night, 7th September 2025 aged 83, following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Stuart was the UK’s and, most probably, cinema’s most-revered film designer … a true giant!” Lamont wrote.
Craig’s career spanned decades, beginning with films like The Elephant Man, Cry Freedom, and The Secret Garden. He won three Oscars during his career: in 1983 for Gandhi, in 1989 for Dangerous Liaisons, and in 1997 for The English Patient.
He received several other nominations and was widely respected in the film industry for his attention to detail and creativity.
Lamont first met Craig on The English Patient and recalled how much that experience shaped his career. “Stuart and I first worked together on The English Patient, flying to Tunis to join him was one of the most important days of my career,” he said, remembering Craig’s talent, kindness, and patience. “A true gentleman, with grace, kindness and humility.”
Craig’s most famous work came with J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world. He was the production designer for all eight Harry Potter movies and later worked on the Fantastic Beasts series. His designs defined how millions of fans saw Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and the magical world on screen.
Lamont added, “I bet that anyone you ask, ‘which designer would you like to work with the most,’ the answer 100% would be Stuart Craig. Anyone who met him will remember their encounter forever.”
Craig leaves behind a legacy that changed the way audiences see film. His designs brought history, fantasy, and imagination to life in ways that will not be forgotten.
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