All 86 ‘Doctor Who’ Actors Who Died

The universe of ‘Doctor Who’ is vast, spanning decades and galaxies, brought to life by a constellation of talented actors. Many have left an indelible mark on the series, from those who piloted the TARDIS to the unforgettable faces who either aided or challenged the Doctor on their travels. The show’s enduring success is a credit to every performer who has stepped onto its sets.

While the Doctor regenerates, the actors who portray them and their many associates are mortal. Over the years, the ‘Doctor Who’ community has bid farewell to many cherished cast members. Each of these individuals contributed to the rich tapestry of the show, and their legacies continue to resonate with viewers. This is a remembrance of some of those actors who have passed away, celebrating their contributions to the Whoniverse and beyond.

Derek Acorah

Derek Acorah was a well-known television personality, primarily famous for his work as a spirit medium on shows like ‘Most Haunted’. His larger-than-life persona made him a familiar face on British television throughout the early 2000s.

Acorah made a memorable cameo appearance in the 2006 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘Army of Ghosts’. He appeared as himself, providing commentary on the mysterious spectral figures appearing all over the globe. He passed away in January 2020 at the age of 69.

Anthony Ainley

Anthony Ainley is best remembered by fans as The Master, the Doctor’s arch-nemesis, a role he relished throughout the 1980s. He first appeared in the 1981 serial ‘The Keeper of Traken’ and became the definitive Master for a generation of viewers, facing off against the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Doctors. His final appearance was in the 1989 serial ‘Survival’.

Before his time as the renegade Time Lord, Ainley had a notable career in theatre and television. However, his charismatic and menacing portrayal of The Master became his signature role, cementing his place in science fiction history. Ainley passed away in May 2004 at the age of 71.

Tim Barlow

Tim Barlow was a character actor known for his distinctive features and versatile performances. Before pursuing acting, he had a career in the army. His acting work spanned film, television, and an acclaimed one-man stage show about his experiences with hearing loss.

In the world of ‘Doctor Who’, Barlow appeared as Tyssan in the 1979 serial ‘Destiny of the Daleks’. He also had a memorable role in the comedy film ‘Hot Fuzz’ (2007). Barlow passed away in January 2023, just two days after his 87th birthday.

Lynda Baron

Lynda Baron enjoyed a long and varied career in British television, becoming a household name as Nurse Gladys Emmanuel in the classic sitcom ‘Open All Hours’ (1976-1985). She was also beloved by a generation of children as Auntie Mabel in the educational program ‘Come Outside’ (1993-1997).

Baron had multiple connections to ‘Doctor Who’. She provided a singing voice in the 1966 First Doctor serial ‘The Gunfighters’, played Captain Wrack in the 1983 story ‘Enlightenment’, and appeared as Val in the 2011 Eleventh Doctor episode ‘Closing Time’. She passed away in March 2022 at the age of 82.

Geoffrey Bayldon

Geoffrey Bayldon was a prolific actor with a career spanning over six decades. He was perhaps most famous for playing the title role in the children’s series ‘Catweazle’ (1970-1971), about a quirky medieval wizard transported to the present day.

Bayldon famously turned down the role of the First Doctor but later appeared in the series as Organon in the 1979 Fourth Doctor serial ‘The Creature from the Pit’. He also had roles in films like ‘Casino Royale’ (1967) and was a familiar face in numerous television shows. Bayldon died in May 2017 at the age of 93.

Stewart Bevan

Stewart Bevan is fondly remembered for his role as Professor Clifford Jones in the 1973 serial ‘The Green Death’. His character was a crusading environmentalist who ultimately won the heart of the Doctor’s companion, Jo Grant, leading to one of the most emotional companion departures in the show’s history.

Bevan’s on-screen chemistry with actress Katy Manning was genuine, as the two were engaged at the time. He had a varied career with roles in films like ‘To Sir, with Love’ (1966) and ‘Brannigan’ (1975). Bevan passed away in February 2022 at the age of 73.

Honor Blackman

Honor Blackman was an iconic actress who achieved international fame as the formidable Pussy Galore in the James Bond film ‘Goldfinger’ (1964). Before that, she was already a star in Britain for her role as the leather-clad, judo-chopping Cathy Gale in the television series ‘The Avengers’ (1961).

In 1986, Blackman entered the ‘Doctor Who’ universe, playing Professor Sarah Lasky in the Sixth Doctor serial ‘Terror of the Vervoids’. Her career spanned many decades and genres, leaving a lasting impact on film and television. Blackman died in April 2020 at the age of 94.

Bernard Bresslaw

Bernard Bresslaw was a towering figure in British comedy, standing at 6 feet 7 inches tall. He was a core member of the ‘Carry On’ film series, appearing in 14 of the beloved comedies. He was also known for his catchphrase “I only arsked” from the TV sitcom ‘The Army Game’ (1957).

Bresslaw made a menacing appearance in ‘Doctor Who’ as Varga, the leader of the titular aliens in the 1967 Second Doctor serial ‘The Ice Warriors’. A RADA-trained actor, he also had a distinguished stage career. Bresslaw passed away from a heart attack in June 1993 at the age of 59.

Richard Briers

Richard Briers was a beloved actor, best known for his leading role as Tom Good in the classic 1970s sitcom ‘The Good Life’. His career was extensive, encompassing stage, television, and film, with a notable knack for comedy and gentle, affable characters.

Briers appeared in the 1987 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘Paradise Towers’, playing the dual role of the Chief Caretaker and the Great Architect. He also had roles in Kenneth Branagh’s Shakespeare film adaptations, including ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ (1993). Briers died in February 2013 at the age of 79.

David Brierly

David Brierly was an actor who lent his voice to one of the most iconic companions in ‘Doctor Who’ history. He took over as the voice of the robotic dog K-9 for four stories during Season 17 (1979-1980), giving the character a slightly different, more mature tone than his predecessor.

Aside from his vocal work on ‘Doctor Who’, Brierly had a long career as a character actor, appearing in numerous television series and films, including the powerful nuclear war drama ‘Threads’ (1984). He passed away in June 2008 at the age of 73.

June Brown

June Brown became a television legend through her role as Dot Cotton in the long-running soap opera ‘EastEnders’, a character she played for over three decades. Her portrayal earned her numerous accolades and a place in the hearts of millions.

Before her iconic soap role, Brown appeared in the 1973 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Time Warrior’ as Lady Eleanor. Classically trained at the Old Vic Drama School, her career also included significant theatre work, including a performance as Lady Macbeth. Brown died in April 2022 at the age of 95.

Jeremy Bulloch

Jeremy Bulloch was an actor best known for his role as the enigmatic bounty hunter Boba Fett in the original ‘Star Wars’ trilogy. Though his face was never seen and his lines were minimal, he brought a cool and menacing presence to the character that made him a fan favorite.

Bulloch appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ on two occasions. He played Tor in the 1965 First Doctor serial ‘The Space Museum’ and Hal the Archer in the 1973 Third Doctor story ‘The Time Warrior’. He was a regular at fan conventions for many years. Bulloch passed away in December 2020 at the age of 75.

Peter Butterworth

Peter Butterworth was a familiar face in British comedy, particularly as a regular cast member in the ‘Carry On’ film series. His career began in a German POW camp during World War II, where he performed in camp shows to entertain fellow prisoners.

Butterworth made two memorable appearances in ‘Doctor Who’ as the mischievous, time-meddling Monk. He first appeared opposite William Hartnell’s Doctor in ‘The Time Meddler’ (1965) and later returned for the epic serial ‘The Daleks’ Master Plan’ (1965-1966). He died in January 1979 at the age of 63.

Earl Cameron

Earl Cameron was a pioneering Black actor who broke barriers in British film and television. Born in Bermuda, he moved to London and began his acting career in the 1950s. He was known for his role in the 1951 film ‘Pool of London’, which featured one of the first interracial relationships in a British movie.

In ‘Doctor Who’, Cameron played the astronaut Williams in the 1966 serial ‘The Tenth Planet’, the story that introduced the Cybermen and featured the first-ever regeneration of the Doctor. His long career included roles in ‘Thunderball’ (1965) and ‘Inception’ (2010). Cameron passed away in July 2020 at the age of 102.

John Challis

John Challis was best known for his role as the nouveau-riche used car salesman Boycie in the beloved British sitcom ‘Only Fools and Horses’ (1981–2003). The character became so popular that he later starred in his own spin-off series, ‘The Green Green Grass’ (2005-2009).

Challis appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ as the ruthless mercenary Scorby in the classic 1976 Tom Baker serial ‘The Seeds of Doom’. His imposing stature often saw him cast as heavies or police officers in dramas like ‘The Sweeney’. Challis died in September 2021 at the age of 79.

Nicholas Courtney

Nicholas Courtney is one of the most beloved figures in ‘Doctor Who’ history, famous for his role as Brigadier Sir Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart. He first appeared in ‘The Web of Fear’ (1968) and became a central character during the Third Doctor’s era, leading the United Nations Intelligence Taskforce (UNIT).

His association with the show was long and celebrated, reprising the role of the Brigadier alongside multiple Doctors until his final appearance in ‘The Sarah Jane Adventures’ in 2008. He also played Bret Vyon in the 1965 serial ‘The Daleks’ Master Plan’. Courtney passed away in February 2011 at the age of 81.

Michael Craze

Michael Craze played Ben Jackson, a companion to the First and Second Doctors, from 1966 to 1967. As a cockney seaman, Ben, alongside Polly Wright, was present for the very first regeneration of the Doctor, witnessing William Hartnell transform into Patrick Troughton.

Craze got into acting as a child and appeared in numerous television productions both before and after his time in the TARDIS. After leaving the show, he worked on several ITV productions and later managed a pub. Craze died of a heart attack in December 1998 at the age of 56.

Bernard Cribbins

Bernard Cribbins was a cherished actor whose career spanned over seven decades. He was known for his work in the ‘Carry On’ films, his hit novelty songs from the 1960s, and as the narrator of the children’s show ‘The Wombles’.

To ‘Doctor Who’ fans, he was the beloved Wilfred Mott, Donna Noble’s grandfather, a role he played from 2007 to 2010 and was set to reprise in 2023. He also starred as companion Tom Campbell in the 1966 film ‘Daleks’ Invasion Earth 2150 A.D.’. Cribbins passed away in July 2022 at the age of 93.

Windsor Davies

Windsor Davies was a Welsh actor with a booming voice, best known for his role as the formidable Battery Sergeant Major Williams in the 1970s sitcom ‘It Ain’t Half Hot Mum’. His powerful presence and comedic timing made him a household name.

Davies made a guest appearance in the 1967 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Evil of the Daleks’, playing the character Toby. After an extensive career in theatre and television, he retired from acting. Davies died in January 2019 at the age of 88.

Roger Delgado

Roger Delgado was the first actor to portray The Master, the Doctor’s Moriarty. He defined the role with his suave, sinister, and charismatic performance opposite Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor from 1971 to 1973. His Master was a formidable and recurring adversary.

Delgado’s career was tragically cut short when he died in a car accident in Turkey in 1973 at the age of 55. His death was a great loss to the show, and Jon Pertwee cited it as a major factor in his own decision to leave ‘Doctor Who’.

Ken Dodd

Ken Dodd was a legendary comedian and singer, famous for his buck teeth, unruly hair, and marathon-length stand-up shows. A beloved entertainer from Liverpool, his career spanned over 60 years.

Dodd made a guest appearance in the 1987 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘Delta and the Bannermen’, playing the Tollmaster. He was also a successful recording artist, with his song ‘Tears’ being one of the UK’s biggest-selling singles of the 1960s. Dodd passed away in March 2018 at the age of 90.

Neil Fingleton

Neil Fingleton was an English actor and basketball player who was one of the tallest men in the world, standing at 7 feet 7 inches. His height led to roles in film and television playing imposing characters.

In ‘Doctor Who’, he portrayed the monstrous Fisher King in the 2015 Twelfth Doctor episode ‘Before the Flood’. He also appeared as Mag the Mighty in ‘Game of Thrones’ and had roles in films like ‘X-Men First Class’ (2011) and ‘Avengers Age of Ultron’ (2015). Fingleton died in February 2017 at the age of 36.

Gerald Flood

Gerald Flood was a character actor with a distinguished voice who had a long career in theatre, television, and film. He was a regular on British television from the 1960s onwards, often appearing in dramas and science fiction series.

Flood lent his voice to the shape-shifting android companion Kamelion in ‘Doctor Who’ from 1983 to 1984, during the Fifth Doctor’s era. He also appeared on-screen in the same serial, ‘The King’s Demons’, as King John. Flood passed away in April 1989 at the age of 61.

Richard Franklin

Richard Franklin was best known for his role as Captain Mike Yates of UNIT, a recurring character during the Jon Pertwee era of ‘Doctor Who’ from 1971 to 1974. Yates was a loyal officer who eventually betrayed his friends under alien influence, adding a complex layer to his character.

Franklin reprised his role in the 20th-anniversary special ‘The Five Doctors’ (1983). Outside of acting, he was also involved in politics and writing. Franklin passed away on Christmas Day in 2023 at the age of 87.

Michael Gambon

Sir Michael Gambon was a titan of the stage and screen, celebrated for his powerful performances and distinctive voice. He is known to millions worldwide as Professor Albus Dumbledore in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series, a role he took over from the third film.

Gambon made a memorable guest appearance in the 2010 ‘Doctor Who’ Christmas special, ‘A Christmas Carol’, playing the lonely and bitter Kazran Sardick. His extensive and acclaimed career earned him numerous awards. Gambon died in September 2023 at the age of 82.

Michael Gough

Michael Gough had a long and distinguished acting career, but he is perhaps most famously known for playing Alfred Pennyworth, the loyal butler, in the first four ‘Batman’ films from 1989 to 1997.

Gough appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ twice. He played the villainous Toymaker in the 1966 serial ‘The Celestial Toymaker’ and returned in 1983 as Councillor Hedin in ‘Arc of Infinity’. A versatile actor, his work included many horror films for Hammer and Amicus Productions. Gough passed away in March 2011 at the age of 94.

Leslie Grantham

Leslie Grantham became a household name in Britain as “Dirty” Den Watts, the original landlord of the Queen Vic pub in the soap opera ‘EastEnders’. His dramatic storylines in the 1980s are among the most famous in British television history.

Before his soap stardom, Grantham appeared in the 1984 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘Resurrection of the Daleks’ as Kiston, a skilled Dalek trooper. He had a tumultuous life, having served time in prison before finding success as an actor. Grantham died in June 2018 at the age of 71.

William Hartnell

William Hartnell was the first actor to play the Doctor, originating the role in 1963. He defined the character as a mysterious, irascible, yet grandfatherly figure, laying the foundation for all who would follow. He played the Time Lord for three years, leaving in 1966 due to declining health.

Before ‘Doctor Who’, Hartnell was a well-established film actor, often playing tough characters in films like ‘Brighton Rock’ (1948) and ‘This Sporting Life’ (1963). His portrayal of the Doctor remains iconic, and he reprised the role for the tenth-anniversary special, ‘The Three Doctors’. Hartnell passed away in April 1975 at the age of 67.

Peter Hawkins

Peter Hawkins was a prolific voice actor whose work was heard by generations of British children and adults. He was known for voicing the Daleks and Cybermen in the early years of ‘Doctor Who’, creating their distinctive and terrifying electronic sounds from 1963 to 1968.

Beyond the TARDIS, he was also the voice of Captain Pugwash and provided the voices for the original ‘Flower Pot Men’. His versatile vocal talents were a key part of many beloved children’s television shows. Hawkins passed away in July 2006 at the age of 82.

Don Henderson

Don Henderson was a character actor known for his tough-guy roles. He appeared in numerous films and television shows, including ‘Star Wars A New Hope’ (1977) as General Tagge and the Terry Gilliam film ‘Brazil’ (1985).

Henderson played the main villain, Gavrok, in the 1987 Seventh Doctor serial ‘Delta and the Bannermen’. He was married to actress Shirley Stelfox. Henderson passed away in June 1997 at the age of 65.

Adrienne Hill

Adrienne Hill played Katarina, a Trojan handmaiden who became a companion to the First Doctor in 1965. Her tenure was brief but notable, as she was the first companion to be killed off, appearing in the serials ‘The Myth Makers’ and ‘The Daleks’ Master Plan’.

After her time on ‘Doctor Who’, Hill continued to work in theatre and radio before moving abroad. She later returned to England and became a drama teacher. Hill passed away in October 1997 at the age of 60.

Jacqueline Hill

Jacqueline Hill was one of the original four cast members of ‘Doctor Who’, playing Barbara Wright, a history teacher who, along with Ian Chesterton, stumbled into the TARDIS in the very first episode. She remained with the show from 1963 to 1965, becoming one of its most respected companions.

After leaving the show to raise a family, Hill returned to acting in the late 1970s. She made a memorable return to ‘Doctor Who’ in 1980, playing the priestess Lexa in the Fourth Doctor story ‘Meglos’. Hill passed away in February 1993 at the age of 63.

John Hollis

John Hollis was a character actor who often appeared in science fiction and fantasy films. He is recognizable for his role as Lobot, Lando Calrissian’s cybernetically enhanced aide in ‘Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980).

Hollis appeared in the 1972 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Mutants’ as the scientist Sondergaard. His other genre credits include ‘Flash Gordon’ (1980) and ‘Superman II’ (1980). Hollis died in October 2005 at the age of 77.

Geoffrey Hughes

Geoffrey Hughes was a beloved actor best known for his role as the slovenly but lovable Eddie Yeats in the soap opera ‘Coronation Street’ and as Onslow in the sitcom ‘Keeping Up Appearances’.

Hughes had a guest role in the final story of the classic ‘Doctor Who’ series, ‘The Ultimate Foe’ (1986), where he played Mr. Popplewick. He also voiced Paul McCartney in the animated film ‘Yellow Submarine’ (1968). Hughes passed away in July 2012 at the age of 68.

William Hughes

William Hughes had the distinction of being the youngest actor to play The Master, portraying the character as a child in a flashback sequence during the 2007 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Sound of Drums’. His haunting performance opposite the Tenth Doctor left a lasting impression.

He also appeared in the ‘Doctor Who’ spin-off ‘Torchwood’ in the 2008 episode ‘Sleeper’. Hughes later gave up acting to pursue other interests, including boxing and finance. He tragically passed away in July 2018 at the young age of 20.

Richard Hurndall

Richard Hurndall was a veteran character actor who was given the unique challenge of stepping into the shoes of the First Doctor for the 20th-anniversary special, ‘The Five Doctors’ (1983). Following William Hartnell’s death, Hurndall was cast to portray the original Doctor, capturing the essence of Hartnell’s performance.

Hurndall had a long career in repertory theatre and was a member of the BBC radio drama company, where he notably played Sherlock Holmes. Sadly, he passed away from a heart attack in April 1984, only a few months after his singular ‘Doctor Who’ appearance was broadcast.

John Hurt

Sir John Hurt was a legendary and highly versatile actor, known for his distinctive gravelly voice and countless memorable roles. His celebrated career included Oscar-nominated performances in ‘The Elephant Man’ (1980) and ‘Midnight Express’ (1978).

In ‘Doctor Who’, he made a huge impact as the War Doctor, a previously unknown incarnation of the Doctor introduced for the 50th-anniversary special, ‘The Day of the Doctor’ (2013). This role filled a crucial gap in the show’s mythology. Hurt passed away in January 2017 at the age of 77.

Barry Jackson

Barry Jackson was a familiar face in British film and television, with a career that spanned nearly 50 years. He was widely known for his role as Dr. George Bullard, the pathologist in the long-running detective series ‘Midsomer Murders’.

Jackson appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ on four separate occasions during the classic era. He played Ascaris in ‘The Romans’ (1965), Garvey in ‘Galaxy 4’ and ‘Mission to the Unknown’ (1965), and the Time Lord Drax in ‘The Armageddon Factor’ (1979). Jackson died in December 2013 at the age of 75.

Michael Jayston

Michael Jayston was an accomplished actor of stage and screen, known for roles such as the Tsar Nicholas II in the film ‘Nicholas and Alexandra’ (1971). He had a long and varied career, often playing authoritative or intellectual characters.

To ‘Doctor Who’ fans, he is the Valeyard, a villainous amalgamation of the Doctor’s darker side who served as the prosecutor in the 1986 epic serial ‘The Trial of a Time Lord’. This complex character was a formidable antagonist for the Sixth Doctor. Jayston passed away in February 2024 at the age of 88.

Caroline John

Caroline John played the brilliant scientist Liz Shaw, a companion to Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor during his first season in 1970. Liz was a departure from previous companions, being the Doctor’s intellectual equal and a key member of the UNIT team.

Although her time on the show was brief, the character remains highly regarded. John reprised the role in the 1983 special ‘The Five Doctors’. She had a distinguished career with the National Theatre Company before and after her time in the TARDIS. John passed away in June 2012 at the age of 71.

Kenneth Kendall

Kenneth Kendall was a respected newsreader and television presenter, best known for being the first newsreader to appear on-screen for BBC Television in 1955. His calm and authoritative delivery made him a familiar face in British households for decades.

Kendall appeared as himself in the 1966 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The War Machines’, lending an air of authenticity to the story as he reported on the threat of the rogue computer WOTAN. He passed away in December 2012 at the age of 88.

Burt Kwouk

Burt Kwouk was an actor beloved for his role as Cato Fong, Inspector Clouseau’s manservant and sparring partner, in ‘The Pink Panther’ film series. His comedic fights with Peter Sellers became a hallmark of the franchise.

Kwouk also had a role in the 1982 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘Four to Doomsday’, playing the character Lin Futu. His other notable film roles include appearances in the James Bond films ‘Goldfinger’ (1964) and ‘You Only Live Twice’ (1967). Kwouk died in May 2016 at the age of 85.

Jackie Lane

Jackie Lane played Dodo Chaplet, a companion to the First Doctor, in 1966. Her character was a bright and bubbly teenager from the swinging sixties who stumbled into the TARDIS, believing it to be a real police box.

After leaving ‘Doctor Who’, Lane gave up acting and went on to run a voice-over agency, where one of her clients was none other than Fourth Doctor actor Tom Baker. Many of her episodes are unfortunately among the missing believed lost from the BBC archives. Lane passed away in June 2021 at the age of 79.

Edward Burnham

Edward Burnham was a seasoned English actor with a career spanning over 60 years, known for his work in theatre, film, and television. A conscientious objector during the Second World War, he trained at RADA and performed in regional repertory, at the Liverpool Playhouse, The Old Vic, and in London’s West End. His notable film roles include To Sir, with Love (1967), The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971), and 10 Rillington Place (1971).

In Doctor Who, Burnham appeared twice, playing Professor Watkins in the 1968 Second Doctor serial The Invasion and Professor Kettlewell in the 1974/5 Fourth Doctor serial Robot. His distinctive presence and versatile performances made him a memorable figure in the series. Burnham passed away in June 2015 at the age of 98.

Olaf Pooley

Olaf Pooley was a British actor and writer whose career included notable work in theatre, film, and television. He performed in the West End, taking roles in plays like Noel Coward’s Peace in Our Time and Othello, and later became a guest director at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where he directed Anthony Hopkins. Pooley also turned to painting in his later years, becoming a resident artist at Santa Monica Art Studios.

In Doctor Who, he played Professor Eric Stahlman in the 1970 Third Doctor serial Inferno, delivering a compelling performance as a scientist whose obsession leads to catastrophic consequences. Pooley passed away in July 2015 at the age of 101, making him one of the oldest actors to have appeared in the series.

Zohra Sehgal

Zohra Sehgal was a pioneering Indian actress and dancer whose career spanned over seven decades. Renowned for her work in Indian theatre and cinema, she also made significant contributions to British film and television. Her vibrant personality and talent shone in films like Bend It Like Beckham (2002) and The Mystic Masseur (2001).

In Doctor Who, Sehgal appeared as Attendant Ping-Cho in the 1964 First Doctor serial Marco Polo, bringing warmth and depth to the historical narrative. Her role remains a cherished part of the show’s early years, despite the serial’s missing episodes. Sehgal passed away in July 2014 at the age of 102, one of the longest-lived actors associated with the series.

Arnold Yarrow

Arnold Yarrow was a British actor, screenwriter, and novelist with a rich career in entertainment. Born in London’s East End, he served in the Second World War before training as an actor and working with the Royal Shakespeare Company, appearing in roles like Justice Shallow in The Merry Wives of Windsor. He also wrote for shows like EastEnders and Softly, Softly, and authored novels such as The Grease-Paint Monkey.

In Doctor Who, Yarrow played Bellal, the diminutive Exxilon leader, in the 1974 Third Doctor serial Death to the Daleks. His performance, despite the challenges of a restrictive costume, was memorable, and he shared fond recollections of working with Jon Pertwee. Yarrow passed away in December 2024 at the age of 104, making him the longest-lived actor to have appeared in the series.

Kevin Lindsay

Kevin Lindsay was an Australian actor who made a memorable impact on ‘Doctor Who’ by playing three different Sontaran characters. He first appeared as the iconic Sontaran warrior Linx in ‘The Time Warrior’ (1973-1974), the story that introduced the popular alien race.

He returned to play Styre in ‘The Sontaran Experiment’ (1975) and also portrayed the gentle Cho-Je in ‘Planet of the Spiders’ (1974). His performances defined the look and sound of the Sontarans for years to come. Lindsay died in April 1975 at the age of 51.

Roger Lloyd Pack

Roger Lloyd Pack was a wonderfully versatile character actor, beloved by millions as the dim-witted but endearing Trigger in the sitcom ‘Only Fools and Horses’. His deadpan delivery made the character a national treasure.

He made a notable appearance in ‘Doctor Who’ in 2006 as the villainous John Lumic, the creator of the Cybermen on a parallel Earth, in the episodes ‘Rise of the Cybermen’ and ‘The Age of Steel’. He also played Barty Crouch Sr. in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ (2005). Lloyd Pack passed away in January 2014 at the age of 69.

Fulton Mackay

Fulton Mackay was a Scottish actor, best known for his role as the strict and authoritarian prison officer Mr. Mackay in the classic BBC sitcom ‘Porridge’ (1974-1977). His on-screen battles with Ronnie Barker’s character Fletcher were legendary.

Mackay appeared in the 1970 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘Doctor Who and the Silurians’ as the scientist Dr. Quinn. He also had roles in films such as ‘Local Hero’ (1983). Mackay passed away in June 1987 at the age of 64.

Jean Marsh

Jean Marsh has a multi-faceted connection to ‘Doctor Who’. She played Princess Joanna in ‘The Crusade’ (1965) and later the companion Sara Kingdom in the epic 1965-66 serial ‘The Daleks’ Master Plan’. She returned to the show in 1989 to play the powerful sorceress Morgaine in ‘Battlefield’.

Marsh is also an acclaimed writer, having co-created the hugely successful period drama ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’, in which she also starred as the maid Rose Buck. Her career also includes film roles in ‘Willow’ (1988) and ‘Return to Oz’ (1985). Marsh passed away in April 2025 at the age of 90.

Ian Marter

Ian Marter played Surgeon Lieutenant Harry Sullivan, a companion to Tom Baker’s Fourth Doctor in 1975. The character was initially conceived as an action hero to handle the physical demands of the role, though this became less necessary with the casting of the younger Baker.

After leaving the show as an actor, Marter maintained a strong connection to ‘Doctor Who’ by becoming one of the most prolific writers of the Target novelizations, adapting many television stories into books. He died suddenly in October 1986 at the age of 42.

Sandy McDonald

Sandy McDonald was a Church of Scotland minister who was also known for his occasional acting roles and television appearances. He was the father of actor David Tennant, who would famously go on to play the Tenth Doctor.

Following in his son’s footsteps, McDonald made a cameo appearance in the 2008 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Unicorn and the Wasp’, playing a footman. He also appeared in documentaries about his son’s career. McDonald passed away in March 2016 at the age of 78.

Murray Melvin

Murray Melvin was an esteemed actor of stage and screen, known for his work with the Theatre Workshop and his role in the seminal 1961 film ‘A Taste of Honey’. He had a long and varied career, appearing in films like ‘Barry Lyndon’ (1975) and ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ (2004).

He entered the ‘Doctor Who’ universe via the spin-off series ‘Torchwood’, playing the sinister and memorable villain Bilis Manger in the 2007 episode ‘Captain Jack Harkness’. Melvin died in April 2023 at the age of 90.

Patrick Moore

Sir Patrick Moore was a legendary amateur astronomer and television presenter, best known for hosting the BBC’s long-running program ‘The Sky at Night’, which he presented from 1957 until his death. His enthusiasm for astronomy inspired generations.

A well-known figure, Moore made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2010 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Eleventh Hour’, Matt Smith’s debut as the Doctor. He was part of a video conference with other experts discussing the mysterious “crack in the sky”. Moore passed away in December 2012 at the age of 89.

Paul O’Grady

Paul O’Grady was a beloved comedian, presenter, and actor, who first rose to fame in the 1980s with his drag queen persona, Lily Savage. He later hosted his own popular chat shows under his own name.

O’Grady appeared as himself in a cameo role in the 2008 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Stolen Earth’, in which he was seen on his chat show commenting on the sudden appearance of 27 planets in the sky. O’Grady passed away in March 2023 at the age of 67.

Kate O’Mara

Kate O’Mara was an actress known for playing glamorous and often villainous roles. She was well known to American audiences for her role as Caress Morrell, the scheming sister of Alexis Colby, in the 1980s soap opera ‘Dynasty’.

In ‘Doctor Who’, she played the renegade Time Lord known as the Rani. A brilliant but amoral scientist, the Rani was a memorable adversary for both the Sixth and Seventh Doctors in the serials ‘The Mark of the Rani’ (1985) and ‘Time and the Rani’ (1987). O’Mara died in March 2014 at the age of 74.

Geoffrey Palmer

Geoffrey Palmer was a veteran actor known for his lugubrious expression and deadpan comedic delivery. He starred in several popular sitcoms, including ‘Butterflies’ and ‘As Time Goes By’, opposite Judi Dench.

Palmer appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ three times across different eras. He played Masters in ‘Doctor Who and the Silurians’ (1970), the Administrator in ‘The Mutants’ (1972), and made a memorable return as the cynical Captain Hardaker in the 2007 Christmas special ‘Voyage of the Damned’. Palmer died in November 2020 at the age of 93.

Nicholas Parsons

Nicholas Parsons was a broadcasting legend, best known as the host of the radio comedy panel show ‘Just a Minute’ from its inception in 1967 until his death. He was also the long-running host of the TV game show ‘Sale of the Century’.

Parsons gave a powerful dramatic performance in ‘Doctor Who’ as Reverend Wainwright in the 1989 Seventh Doctor serial ‘The Curse of Fenric’, a role he described as a treasured memory. He passed away in January 2020 at the age of 96.

Jon Pertwee

Jon Pertwee took on the role of the Third Doctor from 1970 to 1974, ushering the show into the era of color television. His Doctor was a dashing man of action, exiled to Earth and working with UNIT, who was as skilled with Venusian Aikido as he was with a sonic screwdriver.

Before and after ‘Doctor Who’, Pertwee was also famous for playing the scarecrow Worzel Gummidge in the popular children’s series of the same name. He reprised his role as the Doctor for the 20th-anniversary special ‘The Five Doctors’. Pertwee died in May 1996 at the age of 76.

Tim Pigott-Smith

Tim Pigott-Smith was a distinguished stage and screen actor. He won a BAFTA for his role as the menacing police superintendent Ronald Merrick in the acclaimed 1984 television series ‘The Jewel in the Crown’.

He appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ twice. Early in his career, he played Captain Harker in the 1971 Third Doctor serial ‘The Claws of Axos’. He returned in 1976 as Marco in ‘The Masque of Mandragora’. His film roles include ‘V for Vendetta’ (2005) and ‘Quantum of Solace’ (2008). Pigott-Smith passed away in April 2017 at the age of 70.

Peter Pratt

Peter Pratt was an actor and singer who had the challenging task of portraying The Master after the death of Roger Delgado. Encased in heavy prosthetics to depict the character as a decaying, skeletal figure, Pratt played the villain in the 1976 Fourth Doctor serial ‘The Deadly Assassin’.

His performance as the emaciated Master on the planet Gallifrey was a terrifying and memorable one, setting the stage for the character’s future appearances. Pratt died in January 1995 at the age of 71.

David Prowse

David Prowse was a bodybuilder and actor whose imposing 6-foot-6-inch frame earned him the role of one of cinema’s most iconic villains. He was the physical actor inside the suit of Darth Vader in the original ‘Star Wars’ trilogy.

Prowse made an appearance in the 1972 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Time Monster’, playing the Minotaur. He was also well known in the UK as the Green Cross Code Man, a superhero character used in road safety campaigns for children. Prowse passed away in November 2020 at the age of 85.

Diana Rigg

Dame Diana Rigg was a celebrated actress of stage and screen, famous for her role as the intelligent and stylish secret agent Emma Peel in the 1960s TV series ‘The Avengers’. She also played Tracy Bond, James Bond’s only wife, in ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ (1969).

Rigg guest-starred in the 2013 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Crimson Horror’ as the sinister Mrs. Gillyflower, appearing alongside her daughter, Rachael Stirling. In her later years, she gained a new generation of admirers as Olenna Tyrell in ‘Game of Thrones’. Rigg died in September 2020 at the age of 82.

William Russell

William Russell was one of the four original cast members of ‘Doctor Who’, starring as the heroic science teacher Ian Chesterton from the first episode in 1963 until 1965. He was the show’s original action hero, a steadfast and brave companion to the First Doctor.

Russell had a long and successful acting career, including a role in the classic film ‘The Great Escape’ (1963). In a testament to his enduring legacy, he reprised his role as Ian in a cameo for the 2022 special ‘The Power of the Doctor’, setting a world record for the longest gap between television appearances by a character. He passed away in June 2024 at the age of 99.

Peter Sallis

Peter Sallis was a beloved actor, known to international audiences as the voice of the cheese-loving inventor Wallace in the ‘Wallace and Gromit’ animated films. He was also a familiar face on British television for decades, most notably as Norman “Cleggy” Clegg in the long-running sitcom ‘Last of the Summer Wine’.

Sallis appeared in the 1967 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Ice Warriors’, playing the scientist Penley. His gentle voice and charming screen presence made him a cherished figure in British entertainment. Sallis died in June 2017 at the age of 96.

Tony Selby

Tony Selby was a congenial character actor with a familiar London accent, known for his roles in the sitcom ‘Get Some In!’ and as a recurring character in the drama ‘Love Hurts’.

He appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ as the roguish intergalactic trader Sabalom Glitz. Glitz was a popular recurring character who appeared in two Seventh Doctor serials ‘The Mysterious Planet’ (1986) and ‘Dragonfire’ (1987). Selby passed away in September 2021 at the age of 83.

John Sessions

John Sessions was a highly skilled actor and comedian, celebrated for his improvisational skills, which were famously showcased on the original British version of ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’. He was a frequent collaborator with Kenneth Branagh, appearing in several of his films.

Sessions lent his voice to ‘Doctor Who’ in the 2014 Twelfth Doctor episode ‘Mummy on the Orient Express’, playing the malevolent artificial intelligence, Gus. His wide-ranging career covered film, television, and stage. Sessions died in November 2020 at the age of 67.

Michael Sheard

Michael Sheard was a prolific character actor who appeared in hundreds of film and television roles. He is perhaps best known to international audiences as Admiral Ozzel in ‘Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980), the imperial officer famously force-choked by Darth Vader.

Sheard was one of the most frequent guest stars on ‘Doctor Who’, appearing in six different stories across the eras of five Doctors, from ‘The Ark’ (1966) to ‘Remembrance of the Daleks’ (1988). He also played Adolf Hitler on multiple occasions, including in ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’. Sheard passed away in August 2005 at the age of 67.

William Morgan Sheppard

William Morgan Sheppard was a veteran stage and screen actor with a distinctive voice and presence. A graduate of RADA, he was an Associate Artist with the Royal Shakespeare Company for many years.

He appeared in the 2011 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Impossible Astronaut’, playing the older version of Canton Everett Delaware III. His son, Mark Sheppard, played the younger version of the same character. His genre work includes ‘Star Trek VI The Undiscovered Country’ (1991) and the video game ‘Civilization V’. Sheppard died in January 2019 at the age of 86.

Carmen Silvera

Carmen Silvera was an actress beloved for her role as Edith Artois, the tone-deaf wife of café owner René, in the classic wartime sitcom ‘‘Allo ‘Allo!’ (1982-1992). Her terrible cabaret singing was a running joke throughout the series.

Silvera appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ twice. In 1966, she played multiple roles in ‘The Celestial Toymaker’, and she returned in 1974 as Ruth in ‘Invasion of the Dinosaurs’. She had previously worked with director David Croft on ‘Dad’s Army’. Silvera passed away in August 2002 at the age of 80.

William Simons

William Simons was an actor best known for his long-running role as PC Alf Ventress in the popular police drama series ‘Heartbeat’, a role he played from 1992 to 2010.

Simons appeared in the 1977 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Sun Makers’, playing the character Mandrel. Born in Wales, he began his acting career as a child. Simons died in June 2019 at the age of 78.

Joan Sims

Joan Sims was a cornerstone of British comedy, affectionately known as the “First Lady of Carry On”. She was the longest-serving female cast member of the ‘Carry On’ film series, appearing in 24 of the movies and showcasing her incredible versatility as an actress.

Sims made a memorable guest appearance in the 1986 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Mysterious Planet’, playing the formidable Queen Katryca. In her later years, she also had roles in the sitcoms ‘On the Up’ and ‘As Time Goes By’. Sims passed away in June 2001 at the age of 71.

Roy Skelton

Roy Skelton was a voice actor who played a crucial, albeit unseen, role in ‘Doctor Who’ for over two decades. He was one of the primary voices of the Daleks from 1967 to 1988, helping to create their iconic, menacing sound. He also voiced the Cybermen and the Krotons.

Outside of ‘Doctor Who’, Skelton was famously the voice of both Zippy and George on the beloved children’s television show ‘Rainbow’. His vocal talents were a key part of the childhood of millions of British viewers. Skelton died in June 2011 at the age of 79.

Elisabeth Sladen

Elisabeth Sladen is one of the most popular and beloved companions in the history of ‘Doctor Who’. She played the investigative journalist Sarah Jane Smith alongside the Third and Fourth Doctors from 1973 to 1976. Her chemistry with Tom Baker’s Doctor is particularly celebrated.

Sladen’s connection to the show was enduring. She reprised the role many times, including in the 2006 revival, which led to her own hugely successful spin-off series, ‘The Sarah Jane Adventures’ (2007-2011). She passed away in April 2011 at the age of 65, and her death was mourned by generations of fans.

Nicholas Smith

Nicholas Smith was an actor best known for his role as the bumbling, jug-eared manager Mr. Rumbold in the long-running BBC sitcom ‘Are You Being Served?’. He was the last surviving original cast member of the show.

Smith appeared in the 1964 ‘Doctor Who’ serial ‘The Dalek Invasion of Earth’, playing the character Wells. He also voiced the Reverend Clement Hedges in the animated film ‘Wallace & Gromit The Curse of the Were-Rabbit’ (2005). Smith passed away in December 2015 at the age of 81.

Roy Stewart

Roy Stewart was a Jamaican-born actor and stuntman who appeared in numerous films and television shows. He was a familiar face in British productions, often playing strong, physical roles.

He appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ twice. First, as the powerful Toberman in the 1967 serial ‘The Tomb of the Cybermen’, and later as a strongman in ‘Terror of the Autons’ (1971). His film credits include the James Bond movie ‘Live and Let Die’ (1973). Stewart died in October 2008 at the age of 83.

Clive Swift

Clive Swift was a well-known character actor, most famous for his role as Richard Bucket, the long-suffering husband of the snobbish Hyacinth, in the popular sitcom ‘Keeping Up Appearances’.

Swift had two memorable roles in ‘Doctor Who’. In the classic series, he played Jobel in the 1985 serial ‘Revelation of the Daleks’. He returned to the revived series in 2007 to play the kindly and knowledgeable Mr. Copper in the Christmas special ‘Voyage of the Damned’. Swift passed away in February 2019 at the age of 82.

Mary Tamm

Mary Tamm played the first incarnation of the Time Lord companion Romana, alongside Tom Baker’s Fourth Doctor, for the 1978-1979 season-long story arc ‘The Key to Time’. Her Romana was initially portrayed as an intelligent but haughty and somewhat aloof character.

Tamm chose to leave the show after one season, not wishing to be typecast as a “damsel in distress”. She had a varied career in film and television, including a role in ‘The Odessa File’ (1974). She later reprised the role of Romana for Big Finish audio dramas. Tamm died from cancer in July 2012 at the age of 62.

Patrick Troughton

Patrick Troughton had the daunting task of being the first actor to take over the lead role in ‘Doctor Who’. As the Second Doctor from 1966 to 1969, he established the concept of regeneration. His portrayal of the Doctor as a “cosmic hobo” with a playful exterior hiding a sharp intellect and fierce morality set the template for many future incarnations.

Before and after his time in the TARDIS, Troughton was a highly respected character actor, appearing in films like ‘The Omen’ (1976) and ‘Jason and the Argonauts’ (1963). He reprised his role as the Doctor on three separate occasions. Troughton died of a heart attack in March 1987 at the age of 67 while attending a science fiction convention in the US.

Bill Turnbull

Bill Turnbull was a highly respected journalist and broadcaster, best known as a main presenter on the BBC’s flagship breakfast news program, ‘BBC Breakfast’, from 2001 to 2016. His warm and professional demeanor made him a popular figure with viewers.

Turnbull made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2011 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘The Wedding of River Song’, reporting on the strange global events caused by time being frozen. He passed away from prostate cancer in August 2022 at the age of 66.

David Warner

David Warner was a distinguished and versatile character actor known for his tall stature, distinctive voice, and penchant for playing compelling villains or troubled intellectuals. His vast career included roles in ‘The Omen’ (1976), ‘Tron’ (1982), and ‘Titanic’ (1997).

He appeared in the 2013 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘Cold War’ as the thoughtful Professor Grisenko. He also had an extensive voice acting career, including many roles in Big Finish’s ‘Doctor Who’ audio dramas, where he played an alternative version of the Third Doctor. Warner died from a cancer-related illness in July 2022 at the age of 80.

Deborah Watling

Deborah Watling played Victoria Waterfield, a companion to the Second Doctor, from 1967 to 1968. Her character was a young woman from the Victorian era who found herself traveling through time and space, often facing terrifying monsters with a mix of fear and courage.

Watling came from an acting family and began her career as a child. After ‘Doctor Who’, she continued to act in theatre and television. Many of her ‘Doctor Who’ episodes are sadly missing from the BBC archives. Watling passed away in July 2017 at the age of 69.

June Whitfield

Dame June Whitfield was a true legend of British comedy, with a career that spanned over seven decades. She was a regular on radio comedies from the 1950s and appeared in several ‘Carry On’ films. In her later years, she gained new fame as the mother in the sitcom ‘Absolutely Fabulous’.

Whitfield made a poignant guest appearance in the final Tenth Doctor story, ‘The End of Time’ (2009-2010), playing the character Minnie Hooper. She was awarded a damehood in 2017 for her services to drama and entertainment. Whitfield died in December 2018 at the age of 93.

Barbara Windsor

Dame Barbara Windsor was a British icon, famous for her infectious laugh and bubbly personality. She shot to fame in the ‘Carry On’ films, becoming one of the series’ most famous stars. Later in her career, she became a national treasure as Peggy Mitchell, the formidable landlady of the Queen Vic in ‘EastEnders’.

Windsor made a brief but memorable cameo as her ‘EastEnders’ character Peggy Mitchell in the 2006 ‘Doctor Who’ episode ‘Army of Ghosts’, watching the spectral figures appear on the pub’s television. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in her later years and passed away in December 2020 at the age of 83.

Michael Wisher

Michael Wisher had a strong connection to the world of ‘Doctor Who’, though he was often heard rather than seen. He was a talented voice actor who provided the voices for the Daleks in several serials during the Third Doctor’s era.

However, his most famous contribution was originating the on-screen role of the Daleks’ creator, Davros, in the classic 1975 serial ‘Genesis of the Daleks’. His chilling performance defined the character for all time. He also appeared in several other small roles in the series. Wisher died in July 1995 at the age of 60.

Which actor’s contribution to the ‘Doctor Who’ universe do you remember most fondly?