‘Twin Peaks’ and ‘The OA’ Actor Owain Rhys Davies Dies at 44 Following Sudden Death

Owain Rhys Davies, the Welsh actor known for his appearances in Twin Peaks: The Return, The OA, and several film and television productions across the United Kingdom and the United States, has died at the age of 44.

News of Davies’ death was confirmed by his family over the weekend. According to statements shared publicly by his brother, Rhodri Davies, the actor died suddenly, though the exact circumstances surrounding his passing have not yet been fully determined.

“It is with profound sadness that my father and I share the news that my brother, Owain, has passed away,” Rhodri Davies wrote in a statement posted to social media. He added that while the family has begun receiving information about what happened, there are still unanswered questions regarding the circumstances of his death.

“This news will come as a great shock to many,” he wrote. “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.”

The announcement quickly prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans who remembered Davies not only for his work on screen, but also for his generosity and the relationships he built throughout his career; “The reach of Owain’s love, friendship and generosity was vast,” his brother continued. “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.”

Davies was perhaps best known internationally for his role as FBI Agent Wilson in Twin Peaks: The Return, David Lynch’s acclaimed 2017 revival of the groundbreaking television series. Although his role was relatively small, he appeared in three episodes and shared scenes with Lynch himself, who portrayed FBI Deputy Director Gordon Cole. For many fans of the series, Davies became a memorable part of the show's sprawling ensemble cast, which reunited original actors alongside a new generation of performers nearly three decades after the original run ended.

His appearance in Twin Peaks introduced him to audiences around the world and placed him within one of television’s most celebrated cult franchises. The revival was widely praised for its ambitious storytelling and became one of the defining television events of 2017, giving actors like Davies an opportunity to be part of a project that continues to attract passionate fans years later.

Beyond Twin Peaks, Davies also appeared in Netflix’s mystery drama The OA, another series that developed a devoted following during its run. His résumé included work across television and film, reflecting a career that steadily expanded over the years. Among his film credits were Tim Burton’s 2016 fantasy adventure Alice Through the Looking Glass, which starred Johnny Depp, Mia Wasikowska, and Helena Bonham Carter, as well as the 2019 horror-comedy A Serial Killer’s Guide to Life.

While Davies may not have been a household name, he built a respected career as a working actor whose projects ranged from prestige television dramas to independent films. Colleagues frequently described him as warm, thoughtful, and deeply committed to his craft.

Following news of his death, the fan community surrounding Twin Peaks also paid tribute. The popular account Welcome to Twin Peaks shared a photograph of Davies alongside David Lynch during production of the series and honored his contribution to the show's legacy. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who knew and loved him,” the tribute read. “Thank you for being a part of the world of Twin Peaks, Agent Wilson.”

Davies’ death comes as a shock to many who knew him professionally and personally. While his family continues to seek clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding his passing, those closest to him have emphasized the kindness and generosity that defined his life far beyond the screen.

He is survived by his family, who have asked for privacy as they continue to process the loss and await further answers about what led to his sudden death.