Because having each individual podcast listed is making my podcast page way too big I’m dismantling it but retaining the info here on my blog. There is a much better resource for this info, including links to all the charities, on Bog Finish’s page here. Thanks to Ian Atkins for doing such a sterling job on it that makes my poor effort redundant. Click on the Episode number to get to its download page.
Apologies for the lack of photos but my Mac isn’t playing ball at the moment.
Episode 25 – Doreen James
This lady dressed to impress: but it was others she was putting the clothes on, providing distinctive costumes for two stunningly good Tom Baker stories. So we get the goss on a bespoke housecoat, a companion who wore clothes particularly well, and possibly the finest hat in Doctor Who‘s history. All that and a chat about Dobbin from Rentaghost too. Chosen charity: Medical Aid For Palestinians (MAP).
Episode 26 – Viktors Ritelis
A rare interview with a man whose directing credits stretch from Colditz to Home And Away, but who was even further behind-the-scenes on 1960s Doctor Who when he was right hand man to the prolific and acclaimed Douglas Camfield. He discusses winning over William Hartnell, shaving an actress and the differences between working in Australia and the UK. Chosen charity: The Heart Foundation.
Episode 27 – Ray Lonnen and Tara Ward
Another husband and wife – one who appeared with Jon Pertwee and the other with Peter Davison. Between them they have hundreds of credits but diversity too : Tara is a best selling writer, whilst Ray has played the lead character in some seminal TV. Ray and tara talk about falling in love at the right time, being animal lovers and, oh no, The Myrka! I am still in touch with Tara and saw them both again after this – Ray sadly lost his battle with cancer in 2014 and it was a sad duty but an honour to write his obituary for The Guardian. Chosen Charity: Cancer Research and PDSA.
Episode 28 – Peter Straker
Destiny Of The Daleks had already been done but who cares? Peter has never done an interview about Doctor Who before and has a terrific time over a bottle of wine (or two) discussing singing, wearing a dress for Freddie Mercury, and not being available for a second visit to Doctor Who‘s universe. Chosen charity: MacMillan Nurses.
Episode 29 – Bob Mills
He didn’t do an awful lot in Doctor Who but his memories are pretty detailed. Beyond that though, Bob has plenty to talk about as he gives us an insight into the life of a walk-on, then his completely unrelated move into stand-up as the alternative circuit blossomed. Topics include his Dad’s near miss with stardom, running the wrong way in battle, and the strangest comedians you’ve never head of. Chosen Charity: Make A Wish Foundation.
Episode 30 – Zoe Wanamaker
A relatively quick chat with one of the country’s leading actresses, but there is still time for plenty of chuckles from her as she discusses cosmetic surgery, the Globe Theatre and unfulfilled ambitions. And there’s even space to squeeze in a very cheeky message for the fans. Definitely my most nervous contribution to the Who’s Round oeuvre. Chosen charity: The Globe Theatre.
Episode 31 – Vernon Dobtcheff
If you could distill Essence Of Actor into one human being, then this prolific performer (“the patron saint of the profession” – Rupert Everett) would be the result. He discusses a career in several languages, always being the 29th choice for a role, and suddenly having access to “senior parts”. A wonderful addition to the canon and a most enjoyable conversation with a delightful man. Chosen charity: Unicef.
Episode 32 – Simon Fisher-Becker
A one scene cameo was successful enough to make this man become a popular returning character. Simon, who has embraced the Doctor Who Universe, regales us with tales about always seeing the same faces at auditions and does a tour de force of a message to Doctor Who fans in the first Who’s Round to be conducted in front of a (very small) audience. Chosen Charity: Parkinson’s Society, St Christopher’s Hospice and Compaid.
Episode 33 – David Weston
A true man of the theatre who worked with Doctors One and Four in the show but recently brushed with Seven on stage all over the world. Topics for discussion include acting being a “rather sad” profession, Julian Fellowes and going on for Derek Jacobi with no help from a director whatsoever. Chosen charity: Crohn’s Disease.
Episode 34 – Ben Peyton
A vocal contribution only, and no credit, yet this open and friendly actor was the lead villain in a Matt Smith episode. He was also a regular in The Bill and talks candidly about his demise in the infamous Sun Hill fire, plus auditioning for an ever shrinking part in Band Of Brothers, acting with Paris Hilton, and retiring in his 30s. Chosen charity: The Meningitis Trust.
Episode 35 – Dan Starkey
Everyone’s favourite Sontaran sidekick, Dan Starkey has moved from guest actor to much loved semi-regular, appearing in a number of key New Series episodes. There’s more to him than Sontar-Ha though, as this talented mimic talks phonetics, tongue action (or lack of) and being a fan of the series he became a star of. Chosen charity: Leonard Cheshire Disability and Compaid.