I have to say that I have never really been a Dr Who fan, simply because sci-fi is a genre that doesn’t appeal to me in the slightest. However, now that I can say I actually know the Doctor, I feel a keen insterest in the programme coming on!
I was very fortunate to have been in the first production of the Ladykillers at the Gielgud in Shaftesbury Avenue (the theatre where Dame Helen famously berated the Brasilian drummers while dressed as the Queen) from November 2011- April 2012 when the wonderful Peter Capaldi played Professor Marcus. Being on stage with him (and, indeed, the rest of the cast) was like being in a master class every night. I learned so much from just observing him. But not only is he a superb actor, he’s an extremely pleasant man. Well-mannered and approachable, he willingly gave of his time to talk to me and encourage me with my script writing when he really didn’t have to and I very much appreciated that.
I was listening to the radio in the car this morning, and “The New Dr Who” was the subject and I was open-mouthed at some of the ignorant comments being made. “Will the New Dr Who swear?” was one question, in a reference to Peter’s role foul-mouthed as Malcolm Tucker in The Thick Of It. Don’t people realise he’s an actor and that Malcolm is a character he plays just as Dr Who will be? Doh! Or oomments that at fifty-something he’s too old. How old was John Pertwee then? I think it’s only recent Dr Whos who have been younger, isn’t it?
Peter Capaldi is a quirkily handsome, intelligent, brilliant actor who I am sure will be an extraordinary Dr Who. In fact, I’m going to have to watch it from now on, or at least from Christmas Day, when I believe Peter will make his first appearance.
Now, I wonder if he needs an assistant?
And still on a show-biz theme, just a little post datum; I’m pleased to see the Lone Ranger is soon out as a feature film. As I child I loved Saturday tea-times when the TV series was on and I’m chuffed that one of my favourite actors, Johnny Depp, is in the film. But can anyone tell me why Tonto is so called, when “tonto” is the Spanish word for “stupid”?
Mr Capaldi was very lucky to work with you Elaine! I think he will make a great Dr Who. Why shouldn’t a more distinguished ,mature looking man take the role? I look forward to watching the special at Christmas too.