ANDY FRANKHAM-ALLEN PLEDGES SUPPORT 'FOR LUCA'

Cardiff-based Doctor Who author, Andy Frankham-Allen has pledged his support for meningitis survivor Luca Williams.

 

In January 2012, three-year-old Luca was diagnosed with Meningococcal Septicaemia, a disease that ravaged his body within a couple of hours. With less than a 3% chance of survival, the little fighter pulled through – but at a cost. He lost both his legs from beneath the knee, and much muscle and skin from beneath his hips.

 

His family began the For Luca campaign – designed to both raise awareness and money to provide Luca with the best possible prosthetic legs for his future. It began with ‘Raising Your Hand’; simple and easy for everyone to support, you simply had to write ‘For Luca’ on your hand and raise it high. 

 

Stars including F1 hero Lewis Hamilton, Kiss legend Gene Simmons and former Guns and Roses bassist Duff McKagan have all offered their support.

 

It was during the ‘Raising Your Hand’ campaign that Andy Frankham-Allen became aware of Luca at the ‘Avengers Assemble’ red-carpet event in April 2012. Andy Frankham-Allen says: “Luca is an amazing boy; funny, intelligent, and an inspiration to us all. The devotion his family show to him is quite incredible, and it’s great to be able to support him in this way.”

 

In conjunction with Luca’s family and Waterstones, Cardiff-based Candy Jar Books arranged for a signing of Andy’s new book ‘Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants’, during which he gave out the blue ‘For Luca’ wristbands.

 

Shaun Russell, head of publishing at Candy Jar Books – who also had meningitis as a child – feels that Welsh business should get behind Luca’s cause. He said: “Meningitis is a devastating condition for many people and their families. When I first heard of Luca’s campaign I felt compelled to get involved and offer any help I could.”

 

At the Waterstones’ signing, Candy Jar presented with a copy of Andy’s book and an exclusively drawn portrait of Luca by Cardiff-artist Jack Adams. Sian Williams, Luca's mum, said: "We are extremely grateful for the support Andy has given us through the launch of his new and exciting book."

BFI AND ECCLESTON PAY HOMAGE TO NINTH DOCTOR!

To coincide with Doctor Who's 50th anniversary, the BFI have spent the last year acknowledging each Doctor with their own public event. Evenings have been filled with screenings, panel discussions and retrospective presentations, with last night's event in London showcasing the Ninth Doctor, played by Christopher Eccleston.

Image © BBC

Attendees included director Joe Ahearne, producer Phil Collinson and actor Bruno Langley - all of whom contributed in their own way to the programme back in 2005.

Screenings of Eccleston's final two episodes Bad Wolf and Parting of the Ways were among the evening's main attractions, providing a suitably nostalgic view on the show's progress since it's revival.

Eccleston himself however, was unable to attend. To make up for his absence, he issued a personal statement that was read out by BFI host Justin Johnson.

"I love the BFI. I love the Doctor and hope you enjoy this presentation. Joe Ahearne directed five of the 13 episodes of the first series. He understood the tone the show needed completely - strong, bold, pacy visuals coupled with wit, warmth and a twinkle in the performances, missus.

If Joe agrees to direct the 100th anniversary special. I will bring my sonic and a stair-lift and - providing the Daleks don't bring theirs - I, the Ninth Doctor, vow to save the universe and all you apes in it."

Even with it's actor absent, celebrations for the Ninth Doctor were in high spirits.

The next in line to be honoured of course, is David Tennant as the Tenth incarnation. With Tennant himself scheduled for attendance, the celebration seems to get bigger every time.

The event is planned for 29th September.

TAKE A TARDIS TOUR!

Ever wondered what it would be like to take a tour inside the TARDIS?

Google Maps now gives you the opportunity to look inside the Earl's Court Police Box. It reveals the console room in all its glory and is an absolute must for anybody who’s long been wondering where the TARDIS toilet is. Click here to see for yourself.

NEW DOCTOR ANNOUNCED!

In a special BBC broadcast revealing the latest actor to take on the role, Peter Capaldi has been officially announced as the 12^th incarnation of the Doctor. 

At 55, the Glasgow-born actor’s age now equals that of William Hartnell. Capaldi is no stranger to television however, with his best-known role being Malcolm Tucker, the eccentric spin-doctor with a temper from the popular series The Thick of It. Other television credits include Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere, The Vicar of Dibley and four-part series The Devil's Whore.

Interestingly, Capaldi's career already has ties with the Whoniverse, with previous roles such as Caecilius from the 2008 episode 'The Fires of Pompeii' and civil servant John Frobisher from Torchwood: Children of Earth proving this. His appearance in World War Z as the curiously titled 'W.H.O Doctor' continues to show that more people are taking notice of the actor's work.

As an actor, Capaldi's distinctive 'angry Scot' delivery suggests that Whovians will be treated to a sterner, wiser version of the Doctor, potentially boasting quite a temper. If this is the case, then it could give the programme a fresh new face distinct from the current actor, Matt Smith.

When discussing getting the part, Capaldi commented: "It's so wonderful not to keep this secret any longer, but it's been so fantastic... Being asked to play the Doctor is an amazing privilege. Like the Doctor himself I find myself in a state of utter terror and delight. I can't wait to get started".

 

Claiming to be a life-long fan of Doctor Who, Capaldi stated his preparation for the role consisted of revising scripts from previous Doctor Who episodes, before writer and executive producer Steven Moffat had provided him with new material for his own incarnation.

However, even with all this exposure and attention, fans have not forgotten the man still currently in charge of the role. In a pre-recorded message, the current Doctor, Matt Smith, spoke to Capaldi: "I wish my successor all the best and say good lucky and good on you for getting it, because I know he's both a huge fans of the show and a really nice guy".

 

Whilst the shoes are certainly big to fill, the popular opinion definitely seems to be that the iconic role is in safe hands.

NEXT DOCTOR TO BE REVEALED THIS SUNDAY!

Well, the wait will soon be over. The BBC has announced that they will be revealing the identity of the actor to play the Twelfth Doctor this Sunday. 'Doctor Who Live: The Next Doctor' will be broadcast on BBC One at 7pm and will also be simulcast live on BBC America.

The half hour show will include live special guests, Doctors old and new, as well as companions and celebrity fans.

Steven Moffat says: “The decision is made and the time has come to reveal who’s taking over the TARDIS. For the last of the Time Lords, the clock is striking twelve.”

Here's the trailer:

YOUR CHANCE TO MEET ANDY!

Copyright Candy Jar

 

Fans of Doctor Who can meet Andy Frankham-Allen, author of Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants on August 10th at The Comic Guru, Cardiff.

The book, which is currently number 11 in guides and reviews on Amazon, has received some great reviews. These include:

“Companions ... really motivates us to catch up on some of the non-television adventures we have missed!" (Cult Box)

“A firmly engaging and enjoyable read for fans of the show.” (Starburst)

The Comic Guru's address is: 13 Wood Street Cardiff CF10 1ER

 

For more information contact hayley@candyjarbooks.co.uk or theguru@thecomicguru.co.uk

WHO'S WHO?

Image © BBC

Amidst all the excitement surrounding the royal baby let’s not get distracted from what’s really important; who’ll be the new Who? According to RadioTimes.com we could know by next month; the BBC is, apparently, seriously considering revealing the identity of the new Doctor on a Doctor Who Confidential special, as done with the introduction of Matt Smith in 2010.

According to the same source, the 50th anniversary episode of Doctor Who will feature one of the pre-Eccleston Doctors, either Paul McGann, Colin Baker, Sylvestor McCoy, Peter Davison or Tom Baker. With David Tennant returning for the highly anticipated episode, that’ll make three Doctors on call - four if you count John Hurt. Having some back-up, however, might be a sane move when facing both the Zygons and the Daleks.

SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2013: THE DOCTOR IS IN THE HOUSE!

© SDCC

Amongst the constant ramblings of the latest Marvel movie, or the somewhat peculiar appearance from Metallica, it comes as no surprise that the Doctor Who panel still managed to wow audiences with its presence in anticipation of the programme’s 50^th anniversary.

To discuss the upcoming special, Matt Smith, Jenna Coleman and series show-runner Stephen Moffat made a very welcome appearance in front of over 6,000 onlookers. Once their favourite Time lord took his seat, fans were treated to a short teaser trailer, hinting at some of the episode’s content. Judging by the audience's reaction, this will definitely be worth the wait.

Matt Smith, the man behind the icon for the past three years, also spoke a little on his upcoming departure. He said “I’m proud and grateful to be a part of it…I just wanted to say, thank you, for all your support”.

Amongst the panel discussions and teaser videos, fans were celebrating Doctor Who just as much, if not more, than the actors themselves. With the area teeming with cosplay enthusiasts resembling various Whovian characters (and certain box-shaped time machines) a sense of genuine love for the programme ran throughout the building. This was allegedly too much fun for Matt Smith to just sit and watch, who instead opted to don a Bart Simpson mask to walk amongst his admirers!

As one of the major appearances on the final day of San Diego Comic-Con 2013, Doctor Who certainly made an impact, but more importantly, gets us even more excited for the end of the year when we can all see the 50^th anniversary special!

DALEKS INVADE MAIZE MAZE IN YORK!

Source: cnet.com.au

To celebrate 50 years of Doctor Who, York Maze has constructed an image of the world's biggest Dalek 300m (1000ft) long, and features the faces of first Doctor William Hartnell and current Doctor Matt Smith.

The Maize Maze is set in 18 acres and cut out of over 1 million living maze plants. Sixth Doctor Colin Baker attended the opening, and had to battle it out with a couple of pesky Daleks in the process! (see video below)

York Maze is open to the public from 13 July - 2 September 2013.

www.yorkmaze.co.uk

CYBERMEN IN THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL!

There would have to be an excellent reason to be sat in the Royal Albert Hall on the hottest day of the year and the Doctor Who Proms definitely counts as one. The concert, which saw Ben Foster conducting the BBC National Orchestra of Wales with the London Philharmonic Choir, included a mix of music from recent and classic Doctor Who episodes, and will be screened around the same time as the 50^th Anniversary special this November.

Matt Smith and Jenna Louise-Coleman made an appearance along with Cybermen and Weeping Angels. Smith told an excited crowd: ‘One of the great joys of playing this extraordinary, legendary Time Lord is the support and knowledge and love and brilliance of the fans - you really make the show what it is.’

He wasn’t the only Doctor in the house though, as Peter Davison appeared – to a rapturous welcome – to introduce a medley of music from the show’s classic era, including the pioneering work of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Looking out at the thousands of fans, he said, ‘What amazing memories you all have. Even though most of you weren't even born.’

Joining him onstage was Carole Ann Ford, who played the Doctor’s first screen companion in 1963. ‘Who'd have thought this celebration would be happening 50 years on?’ said the actress, now 73 years old. ‘It's amazing.’ 

The Prom was brought to an end by the world premiere of a birthday anthem called Song for Fifty, written by Murray Gold, who has been the show’s musical director since 2005.

 

TEGAN IS BEST COMPANION EVER!

Not Just a Mouth On Legs

 

Candy Jar Books, the publisher of Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants, has announced the results of its most popular TV companion poll. The fans were asked ‘Who is the best Doctor Who companion?’ and the result is actually quite unexpected, as the overall winner is not Rose Tyler, Donna Noble or even Sarah Jane Smith, but the 1980s companion, Tegan Jovanka.

 

Andy Frankham-Allen, writer of Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants, is shocked and pleased by the result. He said: “I would have expected either Sarah or Rose to win, but it's pleasing to see a companion who's only been obliquely referenced twice since 2005 win. Seems there's still a lot of love for the '80s and Janet Fielding's mouthy Tegan!”

Janet Fielding, who played Tegan Jovanka, will be appearing at Project Motor Mouth 2 in Windsor on 3^rd August in aid of Project Motor House. She will be joined by many former companions including Carole Ann Ford, Katy Manning and Sophie Aldred. On learning the news of her win, she said: “Are you sure you mean me? Tegan? The Mouth on Legs? That's fantastic. And rather unexpected.”

 

Donna Noble is the most popular modern day companion, closely followed by Rose Tyler and River Song.

 

The results are as follows:

 

1. Tegan Jovanka
2. Sarah Jane Smith
3. Donna Noble
4. Rose Tyler
5. Ace     
6. Romana / Jamie McCrimmon
7. Nyssa     
8. River Song
9. Amy Pond
10. Leela     

 

Available from the People’s Book Prize winning publisher, Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants is an essential guide and sometimes tongue-in-cheek look at all Doctor Who companions. It is covers the characters to have featured in the comics, books, audio adventures and spin-offs.

 

Gary Russell, former Doctor Who Magazine editor, Big Finish producer, BBC script editor and Doctor Who novelist, has provided the book’s foreword. Gary said: “Of course there have been books about companions before – but few of them go into this amount of detail, display this amount of in-depth knowledge and above all, this amount of love. As a celebration of everything that makes the Doctor’s (and therefore our) best friends unique and special, this book is essential.”

TAKE A TARDIS RIDE!

If you’re out and about in sunny Cardiff then pop into White Stuff - situated in the Hayes - and take a ride in their TARDIS elevator. I thought it was a toilet at first but the assistant corrected me, which I’m most grateful for as being escorted from a shop by horrified staff has never been a good look.

COMPANIONS BOOK SIGNING ANNOUNCED!

To celebrate the release of the much anticipated Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants by Andy Frankham-Allen, London’s The Who Shop has organised a book-signing event this coming Saturday in collaboration with award-winning publishers, Candy Jar.

Companions is an extensive and comprehensive examination of those the Doctor has deemed ‘the best’, and includes Expanded Universe appearances. No collection would be complete without a copy so why not get along to 39-41 Barking Road, Upton Park, E6 1PY this Saturday and get a signed copy. You can even challenge Andy with a Who-related question, make it a good one though; he’s a walking Doctor Who encyclopeadia! You have been warned.

Buy from Amazon now! 

WHO KNOWS?

Is The Dalek Master Plan still lost?

An Internet rumour has reignited the ‘missing episodes’ quest, somewhat of a Holy Grail for Whovians.

Bleeding Cool’s Rich Johnston reported the rumours last week and was, according to an update this week, completely unprepared for the reaction. He writes: ‘And all hell broke loose. Some were confirming the stories, some were denying it. But what was clear was that I’d broken the dam on a huge pent up amount of hope, fear and despair that had remained on message boards, in pub meetups, some behind private member forums and firewalls since late last year.’

Undeterred though by hell on the loose, he adds this week that of the one hundred and six missing episodes, the rumoured ones comprise ninety. The Dalek Master Plan, Mission to the Unknown, two episodes of The Invasion, The Ice Warriors and The Wheel in Space are the only ones that aren’t included in the apparent discovery. But it doesn’t stop there, oh no, Rich Johnston adds that Steven Moffat, Mark Gatiss, Caroline Skinner and Russell T Davies are all involved in trying to ensure the return of the Lost Ark, sorry, the missing episodes to the BBC.

Weighing in, Ian Levine, whose intervention saved many episodes from extinction, claimed on Twitter to have actually seen ‘three tons’ of evidence; it’s rumoured that missing Dad’s Army, Morecombe and Wise and The Sky at Night episodes are also among the discovery. Levine has since declared on Twitter that he refuses to discuss the matter.
 
Add to this the increasing number of people involved who believe that this is an elaborate hoax against the BBC and all we need is a grassy knoll and Lord Lucan to turn the whole thing into a decent conspiracy theory. Surely the CIA have to be involved somewhere along the line. Oh, what a tangled Time Web we weave. Anyway the last word – for the moment – belongs to the BBC’s Head of Communications, Philip Fleming, who responded to Bleeding Cool, saying, ‘There are always rumours and speculation about Doctor Who missing episodes being discovered, however we cannot confirm any new finds.’

Anyway, I’d like to contribute my own rumours so here goes: among the missing episodes are believed to be the two-part special where the Doctor teams up with Magnum PI to track down, and try to reason with, the Hulk, and the controversial episode written and directed by John Osborne, that sees the Doctor struggling against the stigma of being unmarried and pregnant in a small Northern factory town during the 1960s

MATT SMITH SAYS FAREWELL TO FANS

11th Doctor Matt Smith took time out from filming Ryan Gosling film 'How to Catch a Monster' to say thanks to the cast, crew and fans for their support during his time as the eponymous Time Lord.

Here's the vid:

MINI TARDIS TO BE SENT INTO SPACE!

Think you're the biggest fan of Doctor Who? Think again...

A father-and-daughter duo have done the unexpected and used Kickstarter for their rather eccentric dream: launching a miniature model of the TARDIS into space.

Based in Lake Helen, Florida, the pair have set themselves the goal of $33,000, and after only 17 days, have already surpassed that aim with winnings of over $48,000!





The idea behind the idea, is that they will use this money to include the model in the 'payload bay' of a commercial rocket, using very much the same tactics as private companies and universities who want a satellite sent into space.

Even cooler than this however, is what the TARDIS model will actually be used for. By using solar panels hidden within the windows, the constantly-powered box will use a hidden camera inside to send back to Earth photographs - very cool indeed!

Beyond this, their next goal would be to send a life-size replica of the TARDIS into 'Low-Earth-Orbit', so if you feel like that's even better (which let's face it, it might just be), then make a pledge and make it happen!

NEW DALEK TOYSET BACKDROP - SPOILER?

We at Type 40 have come across this intriguing image...

We noticed the claw on Big Ben, and the 'Daleks Invasion of Earth' feel of the thing.... Is this another hint of the anniversary special?

NEW DOCTOR WHO?

As rumour continues to abound over who's going to be the next Doctor, author/actor Terry Cooper (regular Type40 contributor) has started a campaign to get Adrian Lester in the role of the Twelfth Doctor. He's done this artwork, which Lester calls "wicked artwork! Nice one".

What do you think? Strikes a dashing figure, wouldn't you say?

COMPANIONS GRAPHIC BY MORGANBLUEBOX

Check out this amazing infographic by fan morganbluebox featuring all of the Doctor's companions from the TV series.

You can see a bigger version and order a full size print here.

PARIS JACKSON TO BECOME THE NEXT DOCTOR?

 

Todays Daily Star seem convinced that they have the scoop on who is to play the new Doctor.

"Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris, has been lined up to be the next Doctor Who. The fifteen-year-old tweeted her job application to the BBC after becoming a massive fan.

The wannabe actress has backing from Hollywood agent Rick Yorn who signed her up in April. Yorn is said to be determined to make her a major star like his other clients Leonardo DiCaprio, thirty-eight, and Cameron Diaz, forty.

Schoolgirl Paris tweeted a snap of the Tardis, saying: “Omg I wanna be The Doctor. They said any age and gender, right?” Yesterday she was flooded with support urging her to audition for Doctor Who, which is screened in the US. Skater Girl tweeted: “OMFG PARIS I LOVE YOU FOR THIS THE DOCTOR!!!! YOU’LL BE THE 12th DOCTOR.”

And Amrai wrote: “You would be awesome.” Paris would be the first woman to play the Doctor, as well as the youngest by fifteen years. Sources close to the show said the next star could be announced as early as next month. A BBC spokeswoman said: “I’m afraid I can’t give you any idea on who they’re looking for and if Paris would fit the role.”

Last night bookies Paddy Power gave odds of 18-1.

THE FANS PREPARE THE WAY

As the anniversary steadily approaches, so the fans over at YouTube start to demonstrate the levels of their creativity. Among the amazing pieces of work, we at Type40 have a particular love for this anniversary title sequence created by WillLOVESKaren...

MATT SMITH TO LEAVE DOCTOR WHO

As some fans have suspected for quite some time Matt Smith will hand over the TARDIS keys to a new Doctor at the end of this year. His final appearance will be the 2013 Christmas special. However, it is not yet known if this will be a two part story, with an episode broadcast on New Year’s Day.

In a BBC press release Matt said: “Doctor Who has been the most brilliant experience for me as an actor and a bloke, and that largely is down to the cast, crew and fans of the show. I'm incredibly grateful to all the cast and crew who work tirelessly every day, to realise all the elements of the show and deliver Doctor Who to the audience. Many of them have become good friends and I'm incredibly proud of what we have achieved over the last four years.

Having Steven Moffat as show runner write such varied, funny, mind-bending and brilliant scripts has been one of the greatest and most rewarding challenges of my career. It's been a privilege and a treat to work with Steven, he's a good friend and will continue to shape a brilliant world for the Doctor.

The fans of Doctor Who around the world are unlike any other; they dress up, shout louder, know more about the history of the show (and speculate more about the future of the show) in a way that I've never seen before, your dedication is truly remarkable. Thank you so very much for supporting my incarnation of the Time Lord, number Eleven, who I might add is not done yet, I'm back for the 50th anniversary and the Christmas special!

It's been an honour to play this part, to follow the legacy of brilliant actors, and helm the TARDIS for a spell with 'the ginger, the nose and the impossible one'. But when ya gotta go, ya gotta go and Trenzalore calls. Thank you guys. Matt”

Steven Moffat has also issued a statement. He said: Every day, on every episode, in every set of rushes, Matt Smith surprised me: the way he'd turn a line, or spin on his heels, or make something funny, or out of nowhere make me cry, I just never knew what was coming next. The Doctor can be clown and hero, often at the same time, and Matt rose to both challenges magnificently.

And even better than that, given the pressures of this extraordinary show, he is one of the nicest and hardest-working people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. Whatever we threw at him –  sometimes literally – his behaviour was always worthy of the Doctor.

But great actors always know when it's time for the curtain call, so this Christmas prepare for your hearts to break, as we say goodbye to number Eleven. Thank you Matt – bow ties were never cooler.

Of course, this isn't the end of the story, because now the search begins. Somewhere out there right now – all unknowing, just going about their business – is someone who's about to become the Doctor. A life is going to change, and Doctor Who will be born all over again! After 50 years, that's still so exciting!”

At Type 40 we wish Matt good luck!

STEWPOT'S DOCTOR WHOOOOO!

Here's a little treat we've unearthed from the archives: Stewpot's Fun Book from 1977 by Look-In featured jokes, stories, riddles, limericks and comic strips (including one based on Doctor Who, which we've scanned in for your 70s nostalgic pleasure!). 

Just click on an image to see full size:

DOCTOR WHOA!

Ever wondered when someone is finally going to get around to staging Doctor Who burlesque show? Come on, we all have.

It’s a programme that so readily lends itself to a burlesque interpretation. Well, good news; the wait is over; Don’t Blink: A Doctor Who Burlesque is performed by the Tango Gorilla Theatre, the Chicago-based troupe responsible for the critically acclaimed The Empire Brings Sexy Back.

The show follows the Doctor who – see what I did there? – is trying solve the mystery of why he has suddenly become a she.  Along the journey there are rollerskating Daleks, Cyberwomen and the odd naked Ood.

Hurry though, as the last show is on the 31^st of May; tomorrow evening. Face it; opportunities to see a naked Ood are very rare - and perhaps that’s something we need to look at as a society – so if you’re in Chicago then go see it - just try not to choke on a jellybaby.

DOCTOR WHO: THUNDEROUSLY RACIST?

Doctor Who has come under attack, not from Daleks or Cybermen this time, but rather from academics who claim that the show – which celebrates its 50^th anniversary this year – is racist. In a collection of essays titled Doctor Who and Race, the show is criticized for having archaic attitudes, with a few of the 23 authors who contributed stating that the lack of a black or Asian actor in the main role highlights recurrent racism within the programme.

Lindy Orthia, an Australian academic who compiled the anthology, said, ‘The biggest elephant in the room is the problem privately nursed by many fans of loving a TV show when it is thunderingly racist.’ One of the contributors, an American professor named Amit Gupta, writes that the cricket-loving Fifth Doctor – as played by Peter Davison – harks back to the ‘racial and class nostalgia’ of British Imperialism. Other criticisms include the casting of white actors in ethnic roles – as in The Talons of Weng-Chiang, where John Bennett was cast as a Chinese villain – and the ‘slapstick’ manner in which Hitler was portrayed in an episode last year; detracting from any real understanding of the Holocaust. A general consensus among the book’s authors appears to be that primitive cultures are usually depicted as ‘savages’.

Fans in online Doctor Who forums are, on the whole, incredulous at the comments and view them as having absolutely no validity. Many argue that imposing twenty-first century ethics on the older shows is ludicrous and unfair. The editor of Doctor Who online, Sebastian Brook, told The Mail on Sunday: 'I think the suggestion the show is racist is ridiculous.’ The BBC stated: 'Doctor Who has a strong track record of diverse casting among both regular and guest cast. Freema Agyeman became the first black companion and Noel Clarke starred in a major role for five years [Mickey Smith]. Reflecting the diversity of the UK is a duty of the BBC, and casting on Doctor Who is colour-blind. It is always about the best actors for the roles.”

In another controversy regarding the show, actor John Simm, who played the Master in five episodes, is upset at - allegedly - being quoted out of context by the Radio Times in a recent interview in which he said, ‘It's great to be into something, but for goodness' sake, really? I'm not the Master, I'm not that evil Time Lord who rules the galaxy, I'm just in Tesco with my kids. Leave me alone!’ On first reading it appears that the actor is ‘doing a Shatner’ but perhaps it’s not quite as straightforward.

Sources – The Telegraph and The Independent

CLARENCE AND THE WHISPERMEN BONUS SCENE

If you've seen the the Season 7 series finale, you might have wondered how Clarence the prisoner came into the possession of the the Trenzalore coordinates. Well, the BBC have come to the rescue, releasing a bonus scene that tells us all we need to know – enjoy!

THE DOCTORS 101 - START HERE

Ever wondered how many times each Doctor encountered the Daleks? Or which Doctor first encountered the Brigaider? Or, the greatest mystery, just how old is the Doctor?

Wonder no more. We've added a new feature to the blog - The Doctors 101.

http://type40doctors101.blogspot.co.uk/

MAILBAG OF DOOM

According to this week’s Points of View there’s been a ‘growing mailbag of disappointment’ directed at the BBC concerning the latest series of Doctor Who. In true Points of View style we get some examples, the first being from a rather weary looking schoolboy named Oliver Sutton: "I think it’s been boring; the stories have been unrealistic and it hasn't been very scientific at all."

Oliver is joined by Andy Smith, another disgruntled viewer who adds: "I'm finally starting to think it’s about time this classic Sci-Fi show hung up its hat before it totally destroys the legacy of such a BBC classic."

While fan, Craig Jenkins, is clearly unimpressed by the new-look Daleks: "It’s to the point that I don’t want to see any classic enemies in it...for fear of them being turned pink and fluffy."

In reply the BBC issued a statement on the subject: 

"Doctor Who gets over 8 million viewers a week and, out of all the dramas on any channel so far this year, it gets the highest audience share. The response to this series has been ‘fantastic’ and it is the top rating programme for both males and younger viewers, including children."

In conclusion the BBC said that: "Doctor Who fans are among the most passionate in the UK", which, in the context, sounds like a very nice way of saying they complain a lot.

The Beeb had better be careful though; just look at what happened in Norwich recently!

50TH ANNIVERSARY BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEO - SMITH & TENNANT

The BBC have posted a short behind-the-scenes video featuring 10th and 11th Doctors David Tennant and Matt Smith.

Here it is:

RATINGS

Doctor Who was the third most popular programme on TV last night with a 5.5 million viewers. This is a slight increase on recent figures. It was beaten by Britain's Got Talent with 9.2 million viewers. This figure will  increase when timeshift figures are included. The Eurovision Song Contest had an average audience of 7.7 million viewers. Bad luck Bonnie!

THE NAME OF THE DOCTOR REVIEW

Our review of The Name of the Doctor, series seven's finale episode, is now live. But beware - there be spoilers ahead! If you've not watched the episode, do so first. You have been warned!

http://type40reviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/the-name-of-doctor-review-spoilers-ahead.html

FREE SHORT STORY

Teaming up with our friends from Candy Jar Books, we've been given permission to post the following short story by Andy Frankham-Allen. Originally published by Big Finish in their 2004 anthology Short Trips: Repercussions and reprinted later in their best-of collection, Re: Collections, this is Andy's first piece of professionally published fiction, and is now out of copyright (which enables us to post it). Andy is, of course, the author of Candy Jar's forthcoming unofficial guide to Doctor Who companions called Companions: Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants, and he has written three short stories for Big Finish anthology series, as well being the series editor of Untreed Reads Publishing's Space: 1889 & Beyond, for which he wrote (among others) Conspiracy of Silence with New York Times best-seller Frank Chadwick.

Click below to read:

http://type40ukfeatures.blogspot.co.uk/

THE NAME OF THE DOCTOR PROMO PICS

Prior to this Saturday's series finale, the BBC have released a series of promo pics from the episode.

Here's a little taster:

You can see more after the jump:

www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/galleries/

COMIC CAPERS FOR THE DOCTOR

 

After seeing the Doctor reading a copy of The Beano in the recent episode, The Rings of Akhaten, Doctor Who fans have flooded the comic’s offices with enquiries about the issue used in the scene; a 1981 Summer Special. Such is the overwhelming response that staff at The Beano have decided to reprint the original 32-page kids’ favourite and include it in a special edition which goes on sale today.

Mike Stirling, Editor-in-Chief of The Beano, stated that the comic would stay faithful to its original appearance, saying, ‘Some of the strips are colour while some are black and white – we’ve stayed true to the original summer special so that our readers can really find out what The Beano was like more than 30 years ago.’ On the issue’s appearance in Doctor Who he said, ‘Everyone at The Beano was delighted to see one of our summer specials appear on Doctor Who. We’re big fans of the show, and so are our readers – who haven’t stopped talking about it. We decided to travel back in time and get a copy of the 1981 Summer Special, which we’ve reprinted inside the latest issue – in time for the last episode of the season.’ He added, ‘We’re all really excited about this issue and thrilled that Doctor Who is one of our fans

Matt Smith joins Jessie J, One Direction and Olly Murs who all received a Beano makeover for Red Nose Day’s 25^th anniversary earlier this year, a year which also sees The Beano celebrate its 75^th anniversary and the Doctor Who special is one of a number planned by publishers DC Thomson.

A Sonic screwdriver may be just the thing to sort out Dennis the Menace. Who knows?

DOCTOR WHO AND STAR WARS FANS IN CONVENTION BUST UP

Sci-fi fans are a passionate bunch, and this was evident last Sunday during the Norwich Sci-Fi and Film Convention on Sunday when rival fans clashed, prompting a visit by local police to calm things down.

The BBC reports that one member of a Doctor Who club, Jim Poole, visited the University of East Anglia to collect autographs from Who actors Graham Cole and Jeremy Bulloch - there for a Star Wars convention. Arriving at the venue, Poole received verbal abuse from a Norwich Star Wars Club member and subsequently called the police.

"I was put in a police car. We were both interviewed by the police and told to stay away from each other," he said. Mr Poole said two other members of his club, one dressed as the 10th Doctor and the other as Judge Dredd, had waited outside the venue. "This wasn't a fight between Star Wars fans and Doctor Who fans with lightsabers and sonic screwdrivers drawn," he said. "It's a bit sad and pathetic. We're all in the same boat. We're not in competition."

Thankfully, it seems that balance has been restored to the force and time streams have been re-aligned. Apparently, both clubs were planning to meet up to resolve their differences.

Have you ever experienced any kind of rivalry like this? Shouldn't sci-fi fans all be in it together?

RADIO TIMES INTERVIEW JENNA-LOUISE

As fans are no doubt aware, Jenna-Louise Coleman stares out enigmatically from this week’s Radio Times above the tagline ‘Who Am I?’ and inside she talks about her life prior to travelling with the Doctor and how she handles the fame it has brought her – seeing an action figure of yourself must be an undeniably odd experience and one Ms Coleman jokingly describes as being not ‘completely normal’. On being recognised by the public she is unfazed, mentioning a boy who said to her, ‘You all right, Soufflé Girl?’, adding that it made her smile.

 

Her first experiences with the intrusive nature of tabloid reporting are touched upon in the interview, in which her family’s financial troubles became fodder for the Daily Mirror, an incident which compounded her already-existing  wariness regarding outside attention, going against her natural inclination to be a ‘chatterbox', as she describes herself. More comfortable behind a script and a character, she finds it difficult to improvise when attending press conferences and TV appearances with Matt Smith. She adds that playing Clara is somewhat exposing, stating that the character is; ‘the closest thing to me I’ve ever played – especially over the last few years – and I find that’s hard. Doing an accent is much easier.’

 

When she was fourteen Ms Coleman persuaded her parents to move her to nearby public school, as the small Victorian secondary she had attended offered nothing in the way of opportunities to develop as an actress. She attributes her cautiousness regarding press attention to this move, saying that it was both the best thing to happen to her but also the worst.  Describing herself as ‘quite a nervous person’, particularly when on a one-to-one basis, she says that she’s never been on a date. With age though she says it’s becoming easier to relax in social situations. ‘I’m making myself sound socially inept here and I’m absolutely fine in a group of people but I am quite shy,’ she says.

 

Speaking about this week’s episode, The Name of the Doctor, she gives little away, saying; ‘in the beginning we see a Clara in the '60s, '70s and the '80s, so there are a lot of costume changes, which I love.’  On working with Matt Smith she describes the experience as being one that she loves. ‘His first advice was never Google yourself and, now that I’ve got a three-month break, he said take your time and choose your next role carefully.’ So Ms Coleman is off for a holiday in Croatia once filming is complete, leaving the rest of us waiting till Saturday to find out not only the name of the Doctor, but also the answer to the question: who is Clara? We get to know Jenna-Louise Coleman a little better after the Radio Times interview but the Impossible Girl remains a mystery, for the moment.

SERIES 7 EPISODE 8 - PREQUEL

The BBC have released a prequel video in advance of the season finale episode 'The Name of the Doctor'.

DOCTOR WHO CONFIRMED FOR EIGHTH SERIES

Copyright BBC

Steven Moffat has confirmed that Doctor Who will return for an eighth series. Speaking at the BAFTA TV Awards at London's Royal Festival Hall on Sunday, he told BANG Showbiz: "Series eight of 'Doctor Who' is absolutely, definitely confirmed. It is real and it's happening." While Matt Smith has previously declared he has no intention of leaving the show just yet, so far there has been no official confirmation that he will return.

Moffat also commented about the various rumours that had been flying around about the forthcoming 50th anniversary episode: "Normally I'm responsible for the disinformation and the rubbish rumours about Doctor Who episodes, but I haven't needed to for the 50th anniversary episode. People are spinning off the most amazing things – it's quite incredible! Some of them are actually quite good ideas, I might use them in the future. There have been some very creative rumours but I can't say which ones I'm actually going to use."

Well, we can't say we're surprised to hear that the Doctor will be returning. Given the appetite for the 50th episode, along with strong ratings for the current series it would seem madness for the Beeb to halt the show. Of course, no show is automatically approved for a new series – even Who has to get clearance!

What do you think about the next series? Do you think Matt with be back? What enemies would you like to see?