‘Twin Peaks: The Return’ Actor Owain Rhys Davies Passes Away at 44 with Unanswered Questions

Welsh actor Owain Rhys Davies was a performer whose talent transcended the size of his roles. A stage-trained artist who honed his craft at some of Britain’s most esteemed venues, Davies earned a reputation as a deeply committed actor whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he collaborated with.

His stage career included performances at the Royal National Theatre and London’s West End, showcasing both his classical training and versatility as a performer. Born in Cardiff, Wales, and raised in St Clears in Carmarthenshire, he built an impressive body of work that spanned theatre, television, and film across various continents.

On screen, Davies appeared in the Netflix drama ‘The OA,’ the 2016 Disney film ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’ featuring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, and the 2019 horror film ‘A Serial Killer’s Guide to Life.’ Each project allowed him to display the quiet, versatile presence that caught the attention of casting directors.

However, it was his role in ‘Twin Peaks: The Return’ that solidified his place in the hearts of cult television fans worldwide. Davies portrayed FBI Agent Wilson in the 2017 revival of David Lynch’s iconic series, appearing in three episodes alongside Lynch himself, who played FBI deputy director Gordon Cole.

After filming concluded, Davies expressed his excitement on Instagram with a photo alongside Lynch, stating, “What a wondrously beautiful thrill ride it was working with this legend. Being welcomed in by the @twinpeaks family of cast and crew was truly an honour.” Following Lynch’s passing in January 2025, Davies was among those who publicly honored the director.

The news of Davies’s death emerged over the weekend of May 31, when his brother Rhodri confirmed it in an Instagram post shared with their father. Rhodri wrote, “It is with profound sadness that my father and I share the news that my brother, Owain, has passed away,” adding that while the death was a great shock, “our understanding at this stage is that Owain passed suddenly, naturally and peacefully.”

Importantly, the statement did not dismiss uncertainty. Rhodri noted that “there are still questions that remain unanswered regarding the circumstances of his death,” a phrase that has garnered significant attention and left fans and colleagues seeking clarity.

The official ‘Twin Peaks’ fan account paid tribute to Davies online, sharing a photo of him with Lynch on set and writing, “Thank you for being a part of the world of Twin Peaks, Agent Wilson.” The Welsh National Theatre also expressed their sorrow, stating they were “deeply saddened” by the loss and remembering Davies as a remarkable talent.

Rhodri’s statement concluded with a reflection on his brother’s impact, noting that “the reach of Owain’s love, friendship and generosity was vast” and that the outpouring of messages received in the days following his passing had been “deeply moving and a testament to the impact he had on so many lives.” He added that he was “incredibly proud” not only that Owain was his brother, but that Owain had been “a brother to so many others.”

Davies was 44 years old. For a performer who dedicated so much of himself to every stage and screen he graced, his absence will be profoundly felt across the industry and among the devoted communities of fans who discovered him through ‘Twin Peaks’ and ‘The OA.’ If you were fortunate enough to see him perform or have your own memories of his work, please share them in the comments and help keep Agent Wilson’s legacy alive.