February 08, 2020
Something is stalking the Doctor and her friends, from ancient Syria to present-day Sheffield, and out into the wilds of space in Can You Hear Me?
As Graham, Yaz and Ryan return home to see friends and family, they find themselves haunted by very different experiences. Who is the figure calling from beyond the stars for help, and why?
Ian Gelder, who Doctor Who fans may recognise as the voice of the Remnants, talked about playing this mysterious, villainous figure…
How was it being in Doctor Who?
It was brilliant because I’ve wanted to do it for a long time. Being in Torchwood, I’ve already entered the world of Doctor Who, but haven’t actually done a Doctor Who episode. I voiced a character from Series 11 called ‘the Remnants’ and I remember talking to the producer and I said I’d love to be present in an episode too. I’ve always wanted to be in a Who, so it was great when I got the offer to do this particular episode. I was thrilled.
Did you watch the show before? Do you have a favourite memory or Doctor?
I grew up with William Hartnell so I’ve always loved him. But they’ve all brought something completely different to it; they’ve all been great. I have to say though, I think it’s a great step forward that Jodie is now doing it. I watched the last series and I think it’s fantastic, she’s taken on the mantle of Who in a brilliant way.
What was it like working work with Jodie and the other cast?
Really lovely. I had a lot of big scenes with Jodie and she’s what’s written on the tin in a kind of way. She’s everything that you expect her to be, she’s delightful, funny, energetic, committed and we worked together really well.
Without giving too much about the character away, what was it like playing a villain?
Any actor will tell you that playing a villain is always great! But this one was so extraordinary. The first I knew about it was from talking to the costume designer who sent me designs of what the character would look like. When that was patched together with the script I thought how exciting that I’m going to look so extraordinary and so evil and chilling! So I went into it being really excited. The physicality they gave me ended up being a huge aid in how I played the part.
We’ve also heard it’s a bit of a scary episode, how was it to film?
It was particularly fun for me because I keep appearing in the shadows. It was incredibly fun to play, especially with all the prosthetics and the CGI.
How would you describe your episode in three words?
Scary, thought-provoking and exciting.
Can You Hear Me? is coming this Sunday 9th February at 7:10pm on BBC One, or on BBC America at 8pm ET, 7pm CT.
